New Hampshire political leaders mourn Whalley's death

New Hampshire political leaders are expressing their sympathies over the death of House Minority Leader Mike Whalley.

Whalley died Saturday at the age of 54.

New Hampshire Republicans admired Whalley's ability to deal with his illness.

"The courage and dignity Mike showed in battling his illness impressed us all," Republican Chairman Fergus Cullen said.

Whalley had been battling a brain tumor.

U.S. Sen. John Sununu said Whalley was an inspiration.

"The courage and grace which marked his battle with cancer inspires us all the more to keep his memory alive as we serve the public," Sununu said.

While, U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg praised Whalley's service to New Hampshire.

"Whether it was working with his brothers running a successful family business, or enjoying his family and friends on a beautiful summers day on Lake Winnipesauke, Mike always found time to give back to his community and state with his loyal and dedicated service as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives," Gregg said.

"Mike was a dedicated public servant who worked hard for his constituents. He will be remembered as a strong leader and good friend, who showed tremendous strength and dignity in the face of adversity," Governor John Lynch said.

Cullen compared Whalley to Moses.

"Politically, it was Mike's lot to lead our party in the house during an unprecedented time in the minority.  I am reminded of Moses leading his people in the wilderness years." He added, "Like Moses, he was able to view the political promised land up close but was not allowed to enter it himself.  It is not always given for the sower to reap the harvest."

"The passing of Mike Whalley has taken from the state one of the greatest gentlemen to ever walk the halls of the capitol," said Hudson State Senator Bob Clegg, a Republican. "Mike will be greatly missed, but has left this world a better place."

"Mike was a dedicated public servant.  We will always remember his energy, his courage and his unwavering committment to our state. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time," said former Governor Jeanne Shaheen.

"He never wavered from his core values and always looked at what the legacy would be for our children and future New Hampshire residents.  He was a true statesman, and we can never have enough of those in government," said former Health and Human Services Secretary John Stephen.