Quotes On O'Bannon's Passing

"I join all Hoosiers in mourning the passing of Frank O'Bannon. He was a statesman in life, generous of spirit, and always focused on the public good rather than self interest. My thoughts and prayers are with Judy and the entire O'Bannon family and staff at this unfortunate hour." -- Sen. Evan Bayh, D-Ind.

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"Frank O'Bannon would be remembered as an extraordinary man even if he had never been governor.

That he shared his incomparable character and humanity with us as our leader was a gift from him and a blessing to us. Amy and I will miss him." -- Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson

"I am greatly saddened by the news of Governor Frank O'Bannon's death earlier today.

I am fortunate to have known the Governor and to have spent time working with him for close to twenty years in several different capacities.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the First Lady and her family during this difficult time." -- Attorney General Steve Carter

"Governor Frank O'Bannon was a man of integrity, humility and exuded a kindness not often found in men who achieve his level of success and prominence. He led Indiana with an integrity and decency that will remain a standard for Governors of this state for years to come. The Pence family grieves his loss. His passing is a great loss to his family and to the people of Indiana." -- Rep. Mike Pence, R-Ind.

"Governor O'Bannon led the state of Indiana as a gentleman with dignity and true sincerity. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and they can feel comforted knowing that he will leave a lasting legacy of genuine leadership." -- Rep. Chris Chocola, R-IND

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Governor O'Bannon. He was the consummate statesman, a good friend and the finest person I have ever known in public service -– a true role model. His integrity, kindness and genuine humility were unmatched." -- West Lafayette Mayor Sonya Margerum.

"Governor O'Bannon's dedication to our state has been immeasurable. He was a man of impeccable integrity and wisdom who had the hopes and dreams of his fellow Hoosiers first and foremost on his mind.

It has been an honor to serve with Governor Frank O'Bannon. He will be deeply missed by all Hoosiers. Today we have all lost a great friend and an extraordinary person." -- Rep. Brian Bosma

"When the governor and I met, I found the governor to be a man of integrity. He was always willing to listen to the Church's views about issues facing society.

We pray for a smooth transition as acting Gov. Joseph Kernan assumes the leadership of our state today. We offer prayers to Gov. O'Bannon's wife, Judy, to their family and to their loved ones. -- Rev. Daniel M. Buechlein, O.S.B., Archbishop of Indianapolis

"I have known him over 30 years and consider him to be a good friend, a very caring public official and a fine family man. All who knew him will miss him a great deal." -- U.S. Rep. Dan Burton, R-Ind.

"It's a very sad day for Indiana. We lost a great leader. If a measure of a person is how he lives, he measured up to a very, very high standard." -- Indiana House Speaker Patrick Bauer, D-South Bend.

"Our governor was a man beloved and respected by ordinary citizens, members of government regardless of party affiliation, and those of great influence and power." -- The Rev. Woodie W. White, Bishop for the Indiana area of The United Methodist Church.

"He was a man of great substance, character and intellect. I know first-hand while serving Indiana University that he was committed to all levels of education, including higher education. Frank O'Bannon made a difference in this world, and he will long be remembered and loved." -- Myles Brand, NCAA president and former Indiana University president.

"Frank O'Bannon's death will be keenly felt by the men and women of The American Legion, as well as by all those with whom he shared the honored title of 'veteran."' -- M. Roger Baker, Indiana commander of the American Legion.

"Rip your heart out? Is that a good way to put it? He's Frank around here." -- Esther Wilson, pastor of the Corydon United Methodist Church, commenting on the pain church members felt Sunday.

"He was a man with real integrity. You could always count on his word." -- Former Indiana Gov. Robert D. Orr, a Republican.