Long-time Milwaukee alderman, Walker's former Chief of Staff Tom Nardelli dies

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- FOX6 News has learned Tom Nardelli -- a familiar name in Milwaukee and state politics, has died.

Nardelli died Monday morning, September 1st.

Nardelli was a long-time Milwaukee alderman. He was later hired by Scott Walker in 2007 -- to serve as the then-County Executive's Chief of Staff.

In 2011, Nardelli abruptly quit his state job in Walker's administration.

"Loved his job, loved politics, loved his family. He was a dedicated public servant. He was a great father who really cared about the citizens  of Milwaukee. He was a proud son of Milwaukee who loved his Italian heritage. He was proud of it and was a deeply religious man and a very strong Catholic," Milwaukee Common Council President Michael Murphy said.

Walker issued the following statement:

"I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Tom Nardelli, who was a wonderful public servant and a dear friend."

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett's office issued this statement:

"Tom Nardelli was an individual who dedicated his life to public service.  He brought a level of enthusiasm and passion to public policy.  The Italian Community Center benefited greatly from his active engagement and leadership. My condolences to his wife and family."

Milwaukee Alderman Bob Donovan issued this statement:

"I am very saddened to hear of the sudden passing of my former Common Council colleague, Tom Nardelli. I served with Tom during my first term on the Council, and in many respects he was a mentor to me. 

I appreciated his open door policy, and his willingness to talk about issues one-on-one, and without an appointment. He was affable and he exuded common sense – something that I believe is in short supply today in too many circles. 

Tom was a true public servant who worked in the best interest of his constituents and the City of Milwaukee. The Common Council and the community benefited greatly by Tom Nardelli’s service over the years, and he will be sorely missed by me, by my family, and by many others. 

My thoughts and prayers are with Tom’s wife, his children and his loved ones."

Milwaukee Common Council President Michael Murphy issued this statement:

"On the sudden passing of my former colleague, Tom Nardelli, I send my deepest sympathy to his wife, Marcia, to Tom’s three children, and to all of his family and friends. Tom was a tremendously devoted husband and father.

Tom was very proud of his Italian heritage, and he was a strong and devoted Catholic whose faith was very much an important part of his life. Above all else, during his public service he was a tireless advocate for his constituents and for the City of Milwaukee.

Tom served on the Common Council from 1986 to 2004 with a fiscally-conservative approach that he was proud of, and he was welcoming of the nickname “No-delli” because he was truly dedicated to protecting (and being stingy with) taxpayer dollars and city resources.

Those who knew Tom know about his love of politics and his personal dedication to his work as an elected official. Tom was in early and on time – something that he was used to as a longtime member and officer in the U.S. Army Reserves. When he chaired the Finance and Personnel Committee, you’d dare not show up to the meeting late or unprepared, as Tom would make sure members were held accountable.

Tom will be sorely missed by his family, his friends, and his many former colleagues."