NEENAH, WI (WTAQ) – A former state lawmaker from the Fox Valley has died.
State Senator Mike Ellis of Neenah passed away Friday morning at the age of 77.
Ellis began his career on the Neenah City Council in the 1960s and served as council president
He was a member of the State Assembly from 1971-1983. He served in the State Senate from 1983-2015, and was elected Senate President in 2011.
In his time he served as both a majority and minority leader.
State Senator Roger Roth, R-Appleton currently holds the seat the Ellis had. He said he learned a lot from the man who had the seat before him.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Michael G. Ellis. Mike was a dedicated public servant, a highly-respected colleague, and a good friend. He was a tremendous mentor to me and I knew I could look to him for guidance on any issue. His breadth of knowledge and experience always kept him two steps ahead of everyone.”
Governor Scott Walker also released a statement.
“Tonette and I are saddened to hear of the passing of Senator Mike Ellis. He was a giant in the Legislature and a bigger-than-life personality in Wisconsin politics. I enjoyed serving with him as a lawmaker and as governor. We were just on the radio together recently and I love his wit and passion. He will be missed by so many of us. Tonette and I send our prayers to his entire family.”
The cause of Ellis’ death was not immediately available.
