WASHINGTON, June 22 (UPI) -- Former U.S. Rep. Guy Vander Jagt, a Republican who represented Western Michigan for 26 years, died Friday of pancreatic cancer.
The 75-year-old was at his home in Washington, The Detroit Free Press reported.
Vander Jagt served for many years as head of the Republican Congressional Committee. He was known for his speaking ability and gave the keynote address at the 1980 Republican Convention in Detroit.
"He will be fondly remembered for his longtime public service and advancing the cause of the Republican Party," said Rep. Pete Hoekstra, who represents Vander Jagt's former district and defeated him in a Republican primary.
Vander Jagt served in Congress from 1967 to 1993.
A native of Cadillac, Mich., Vander Jagt graduated from the University of Michigan law school.
He is survived by his wife, Carol, and a daughter.
