Creator: NORMAN LENBURG Copyright: NORMAN_LENBURG
MADISON, WI (WSAU) — Governor Tony Evers has announced that former Governor Tony Earl has passed away after suffering a stroke last weekend.
According to a press release from Evers’ office, Earl died early Thursday peacefully and surrounded by his family. He was 86.
“It has been an extraordinary honor and a privilege to know former Gov. Earl, and Kathy and I are heartbroken today to announce his passing,” said Gov. Evers in a press release. “A formidable leader and public servant, trusted colleague and mentor, and a good and loyal friend, Tony was well-liked and respected by so many. Tony was always a staunch defender of our state’s proud traditions, including conservation, and his passing is a significant loss for our state and for all who had the fortune of meeting and serving with him. His wisdom and wit will be well missed. Kathy and I send our deepest condolences to his daughters and his family during this tremendously difficult time, and we join the people of Wisconsin in mourning the loss of former Gov. Earl.”
Before serving as Wisconsin’s 41st Governor, Earl began his professional career as an assistant district attorney in Marathon County from 1965 to 1966. He then served as the Wausau City Attorney from 1966 to 1969 before being elected to the state Assembly in a special election. He then served two full terms after winning re-election in 1970 and ’72. He was elected as the Assembly’s majority leader during his last term.
He moved on from the assembly to serve in the state’s Department of Administration and Department of Natural Resources under three different Governors before winning the office himself from 1983-1987.
The Democratic Party of Wisconsin also released a statement regarding Earl’s passing, offering “our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Governor Tony Earl as we learn of his passing today. From protecting our environment to appointing Wisconsin’s first African-American cabinet officer to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, Governor Earl was a courageous leader who spent his life serving Wisconsin and the progressive cause. His legacy is one from which we may all draw inspiration, and which will live on in our state for generations to come.”
Evers announced earlier this week that Earl’s health was failing and that he had entered hospice care. Flags statewide have been ordered to fly at half-staff from now until sunset on March 3rd. Details on a celebration of life for Earl will be announced at a later date.
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