MADISON - Following is a statement from Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Mike Tate on the passing of longtime Democratic activist Dick Pas.

"In the heart of the reddest county in Wisconsin lived Dick Pas, one of the most true-blue advocates for progressive values I've ever had the pleasure of working with.

"Dick was a tireless worker when it comes to standing up for the middle class and turning Wisconsin blue, county by county. In fact, just yesterday Dick called me with ideas for radio ads, because he never stopped churning on what we could do to help Democrats be successful up and down the ticket and all over the state.

"And best of all, everything Dick did was with a smile on his face and a sense of indefatigable optimism because he knew that his work mattered and would help make our state better for our kids and our grandkids. Wisconsin Democrats are heartbroken by the loss of such a great friend and ally. On behalf of the entire Democratic Party of Wisconsin family, our condolences go out to his wife Geri and all his family. He will be missed."