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Officials react to passing of former congressman

ELKINS — Several area officials shared their thoughts on the passing of Ken Hechler and all agreed he was a gentleman and a consummate statesman.

Hechler, 102, died Saturday night at his home in Romney. Hechler served as secretary of state, was a nine-term congressman and was a champion of civil rights and environmental protection; he also was an author and military veteran.

Randolph County Commissioner Mike Taylor said he remembers Hechler as a public servant and veteran.

“What I remember of Ken Hechler was his time as secretary of state. I know he was a very dedicated public servant. He had served in the armed services, served his state and served his country,” Taylor said.

“One of the things I’ll always remember is his little red Jeep. That was one of his signature things; he always traveled the state in his little red Jeep,” Taylor added.

Delegate Bill Hartman, D-Randolph, described Hechler as one of the strongest leaders ever produced by West Virginia.

“He was absolutely a public servant that we can be proud of. As a military man and also in politics, I think he’ll be remembered as maybe one of the strongest leaders that we’ve had in West Virginia,” Hartman said.

Elkins Mayor Van Broughton said Hechler was one of the first politicians he ever met. He said Hechler set an example he has tried to follow his entire life.

“What can I say? First time I met him was when I was in high school back in the late 1970s. He was a joy to be around. He was really one of the first politicians I ever met. Him and A.J. Manchin,” Broughton said.

“He never forgot where he came from. It seemed like he was a typical, everyday West Virginia native. That’s something I’ve always tried to do. I try to not forget where I come from,” Broughton added.

Broughton said Hechler was not a divisive politician.

“He accomplished a lot in the state and was very well liked by both parties; that’s something you don’t see much of today. He had a lot of respect. And it’s a sad loss for the people of West Virginia,” Broughton said.

“He was vocal and he took a stance for what he believed in, and he fought for it. He didn’t back down. He wanted to do what was best for the citizens of West Virginia.”

Jay Cole, senior advisor to the president at West Virginia University, said Hechler was a statesman, soldier, professor, author and advocate.

“Ken Hechler’s career is a long and bright thread woven into the quilts of both West Virginia and American politics,” Cole said.

After his retirement, he remained active by traveling the country to speak about his broad experience and knowledge.

“Ken was a wise and wonderful person, and his passing leaves a void that can never be filled,” Cole said.

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