Mitt Romney: &#34If any politician deserves to ride a highway to heaven, it is Governor Norm Bangerter. Norm was single-minded in his devotion to the people of Utah, never worrying about who received credit for his good works. Ann and I enjoyed his counsel and friendship during the 2002 Olympic preparations and in my campaigns thereafter. Now, when we drive along the highway named in his honor, we will honor him in our hearts as well."

Gov. Gary Herbert: “Gov. Bangerter was first and foremost a friend and a mentor to me. He was a great leader who accomplished great things on behalf of our state. I always appreciated his forthright and no-nonsense leadership and his willingness to make the tough decisions.

“That leadership was on display as recently as this past Thursday, when Gov. Bangerter spoke to the leadership of the Utah Highway Patrol, our Honorary Colonels, and many other civic and legislative leaders at the Governor’s Mansion.

"As that evening concluded, I told Gov. Bangerter I valued his counsel and that I wanted him to call me at any time and give me his input. He assured me he would. His sudden passing is a shock to me and the state. We will all miss him."

• Former Gov. Mike Leavitt: "Gov. Bangerter will be remembered as a man of great ability and integrity who had the noblest of motives. He will be remembered by history as a man who faced problems squarely and consistently exercised good judgment. He was a wonderful friend who I will miss."

• Sen. Orrin Hatch: "He served our state with integrity and gritty determination and was never afraid to make the tough decisions and do what is right. He had a strong will and was always true to his principles and beliefs. I could always count on him to share his ideas and wise counsel, and there was never a question of how much he loved our state and nation."

Sen. Mike Lee: "Gov. Norm Bangerter was an extraordinary man who loved Utah and this country and worked tirelessly to make them better. His leadership will be missed as his friendship will be cherished. Our state and nation are better today because Norm Bangerter chose to sacrifice and serve."

• Rep. Mia Love: “I am saddened to hear news of the passing of Gov. Norm Bangerter. He served the state of Utah for many years and while the state was facing major economic challenges. His leadership led the state to better times. He was committed to 'building a better Utah' and leaves behind a great legacy of having done just that. Most importantly, he leaves a legacy of love with his family. He will be missed.”

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• House Speaker Greg Hughes: “I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Gov. Norm Bangerter. As a representative, speaker of the House and governor, he took tough stands on tough issues and he always put the people of Utah first. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.”

• Utah GOP Chairman James Evans: "As we mourn the passing of former Gov. Norm Bangerter (Tuesday) evening, I encourage all Utahns to honor his legacy and remember the enormous impact he had on the state of Utah. Gov. Bangerter moved our state forward in spite of the many challenges it faced during his time in office. A cornerstone of Utah values, Gov. Bangerter was not afraid to make tough decisions and did what he thought was right."

• Utah Democratic Party Chairman Peter Corroon: "Gov. Bangerter was a true public servant. He was an elected official who wasn't afraid to take courageous stands to improve the lives and quality of life for all Utahns. He was also a great business leader, dedicated church member, champion of education, and perhaps most importantly, he was a family man. Our deepest condolences to his family at this time."

Email: lisa@deseretnews.com, Twitter: DNewsPolitics

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