DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate issued the following statement today regarding the passing of former Iowa Governor Robert Ray:

"I am very saddened to hear of the passing of former Governor Robert Ray. He was an inspiration to so many Iowans, including myself. Bob Ray is the reason I entered public service. As a teenager, I attended a Boy Scouts proclamation signing in Governor Ray's Capitol office in the 1970's. Governor Ray gave me an Iowa flag and the lapel pin he was wearing. It was that meeting that spurred my lifelong commitment to serving others.

Governor Ray was a one of a kind leader and leaves behind a tremendous legacy. Our state, our nation, and our world were made better by his outstanding leadership. He was a model for all of us to follow and will be greatly missed. My condolences to his wife Billie, their daughters and all the family and friends of Governor Ray. I join Iowans in every corner of the state in mourning his passing." - Paul Pate, Iowa Secretary of State

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