Former U.S. Rep. Bob Kastenmeier has passed away; Wisconsin Democrat was 91

MADISON (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Bob Kastenmeier, an early and staunch opponent of the Vietnam War who served 32 years in Congress, has died. The Wisconsin Democrat was 91.

Kastenmeier's wife, Dorothy, tells The Associated Press he died Friday, March 20th at their home in Arlington, Virginia. She says his heart had been failing.

Kastenmeier, who represented the Madison area, served in the U.S. House from 1959 to 1991. He was upset by Republican challenger Scott Klug in 1990.

Kastenmeier was an early critic of the Vietnam War. He brought his House subcommittee to Madison to hold hearings on how the war was affecting his constituents.

Former U.S. Rep. David Obey of Wisconsin, who served with Kastenmeier, tells the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that Kastenmeier was "the most honest public official" he'd ever dealt with.

"Bob leaves behind a long legacy as a champion for the people of Wisconsin and the United States. He was a leading voice for civil rights and civil liberties, and an advocate for peace in his 32-years as a U.S. representative and decades after. I got my start in national politics knocking on doors for Bob's campaigns while in college. I'll always remember how much his constituents loved and admired him. Today, as an heir to Bob's legacy, I work every day to live up to his standard and to follow his model as a legislator. " — U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan

"Former Wisconsin Congressman Robert Kastenmeier was a dedicated public servant. I'm sorry to hear the news of his passing and Tonette and I send our thoughts and prayers to his family." — Gov. Scott Walker

"I take great pride in having walked in his footstep representing the 2nd Congressional District. His public service is an inspiration to me today and his optimistic spirit will live on in me and other elected officials who were touched by his life's work." — U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin

"Bob's commitment to civil liberties and civility in politics was one of my earliest inspirations. He will be deeply missed as a model of public service, and as a friend." — Former U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold

"Bob Kastenmeier was an unwavering advocate for civil rights, justice, the search for knowledge, and public service -- he was the very embodiment of the Wisconsin Idea." — Wisconsin Democratic Party Chairman Mike Tate

“Bob Kastenmeier was a gentleman in the classic sense. He was a strong, progressive voice for Wisconsin and provided leadership on topics such as intellectual property. Even in his later years, Bob continued to speak out on important issues. His contributions to his state and his country will be remembered for a long time.” -- Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett