I rise today to honor one of Montana’s most dedicated public servants, former Lieutenant Governor Karl Ohs.  Last month, Karl passed away in his Helena home due to complications caused by brain cancer. 

Born in Malta, Montana in 1946, Karl was the portrait of a Montana farmer and rancher.  Whether it was studying agricultural economics at Montana State University, meeting with fellow ag producers to discuss new economic opportunities in the state, or working the ranch, Karl was a vital supporter of Montana’s leading industry.

His work on behalf of Montana’s rural priorities didn’t stop there. During his three terms in the Montana House of Representatives and four years as Lieutenant Governor, Karl was a proven leader.  As a member of the Governor’s Drought Advisory Committee and chairman of the National Lieutenant Governors Association, Karl represented Montana’s needs not only on the state but the national level. Additionally, his prominent role as mediator between the anti-government Freeman and the FBI during a 1996 standoff, for which he was awarded the FBI’s highest civil service award, solidified Karl’s status as a hard-working, straight shooting cowboy.

Finally, in 2006, as chairman of the Montana Republican Party, Karl helped Republicans regain control of the state House, the only state in the nation to see a legislative body change from Democrat to Republican control. 

Most importantly, Karl was a dedicated father, a loving husband, and a good friend who left a permanent impression on those who knew him. God rest his soul.