Quotes on the death of former Nevada Gov. Mike O’Callaghan:

Friday, March 5, 2004 | 9:15 a.m.

Reaction on the death of Las Vegas Sun editor and former Nevada Gov. Mike O'Callaghan:

"Nevada lost a treasure today. I lost a friend and a role model." - GOP Gov. Kenny Guinn.

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"Mike's death is a great loss to our state. ... He was a hands-on guy who always took his responsibilities seriously and dealt with them decisively and fairly. He was an outstanding American, a truly devoted Nevadan and an advocate for the people that really needed help." - State Sen. Bill Raggio, R-Reno.

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"He was so concerned about me personally. He gave me money, helped me with scholarships, helped me get to college. He set such a great example for me. ... A playwright couldn't have scripted it any better. His whole life is pictured in where he died. He went to church everyday." - U.S. Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev.

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"He was a rare breed among men whose leadership, heart and enthusiasm changed the face of our state. He never ever forgot the little guy." - Bishop Joseph A. Pepe, Diocese of Las Vegas.

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"I'm nursing a broken heart. ... The state is far better off for his public service, and he is leaving a large void that cannot possibly be filled." - Rep. Shelley Berkley, D-Las Vegas.

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"Gov. O'Callaghan has always been known as a man of great integrity. His reputation for telling it like it is was well-earned and well-respected. ... He will be forever remembered as one of Nevada's finest governors." - Rep. Jim Gibbons, R-Nev.

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"He will be greatly missed, but Nevada will benefit from both his political and personal legacy for years to come." - Adriana Martinez, state Democratic Party chairwoman.

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"So many people that just moved to here will never realize ... he made Nevada the place where they want to live." - Former Gov. Bob Miller, a Democrat.

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"Mike always directed his efforts toward the people who needed help. His reward was knowing that he did the right thing." - Brian Greenspun, Las Vegas Sun editor and president.

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"For those of us who grew up in Nevada, Gov. O'Callaghan was an icon. He was the personification of public service and private good. He was involved with his community and state through the decades and touched the hearts of more people than I can count." - GOP Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt.