Sen. Rick Gudex, R-Fond du Lac, died unexpectedly Wednesday, ushering in the sympathy of more than 30 state leaders.

Gudex, who was 48, died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest, according to a statement from the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office.

Elected to the state senate in 2012, Gudex announced last year that he wouldn’t seek re-election in 2016. He previously served as the mayor of Mayville, Wisconsin, was a member of the Fond du Lac City Council and spent 20 years in manufacturing management. 

Gov. Scott Walker said in a statement that Gudex’s passing deeply saddened his wife and him.

“Rick was a good man who served his community and state well, and he will be missed,” Walker said.

Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Martha Laning shared a similar sentiment. She said while being from opposite parties, she respected his dedication to public service and representing his community. Democratic legislators, including Rep. Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit, remembered him for his work on bipartisan issues.

“Sen. Gudex was a perfect example that despite our differences at times, Wisconsin is full of good-hearted people who want to work together in service of this great state,” Spreitzer said in a statement.

Other statements expressed shock at the senator’s death and showed support for his wife and two children while commending his work in free enterprise and public service.

Winnebago County Executive Mark Harris and Dan Feyen, chairman of the Fond du Lac Republican Party, are running to represent the 18th district, which Gudex had served. Harris said in a statement he is saddened by the loss and Feyen asked Wisconsinites to pray for Gudex’s family.

“Rick Gudex was a dedicated public servant who will be deeply missed,” Feyden said in a statement. “His friendship and trust meant so much to me.”