LANSING, Mich. — Former state Sen. Tom Casperson has died from cancer, Michigan Republican Party Chairwoman Laura Cox said Sunday.

The Republican from Escanaba represented the Upper Peninsula for 15 years in the state Legislature. He announced he was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in 2018, mLive reported Sunday.

Cox sent out a statement and conveyed her condolences to his family on behalf of Michigan Republicans:

“I am incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of my friend, Senator Tom Casperson, after his long battle with cancer. I had the distinct pleasure of serving with him in the legislature, and I was always inspired by his commitment to our shared values and to the people of Michigan. Tom Casperson will be remembered for his dedicated service to the Upper Peninsula, and he will stand as an example for future generations of public servants looking to better their communities.”

Casperson, 61, served six years in the Michigan House of Representatives before being elected to the Senate in 2010, serving from 2011 to 2018. He also campaigned for Michigan’s First Congressional District in 2008 and 2016 but ultimately lost both races.