BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Jack Dalrymple today issued the following statement in response to the death of state Sen. Tom Fischer, who passed away Wednesday at the age of 65.

“Betsy and I extend our deepest condolences to the family of Senator Tom Fischer, who dedicated his life to public service and to making a difference for his fellow citizens in eastern North Dakota and across the state. As a legislator, lieutenant governor and governor, I worked with Senator Fischer on numerous human services and water projects and respected his knowledge and wisdom regarding these important issues. We are grateful for his distinguished service to North Dakota.”