CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Former West Virginia Secretary of State and West Virginia Republican Party Chairman Edgar “Hike” Heiskell III died Sunday. He was 76.
According to reports, Heiskell lost a brief battle with cancer.
Heiskell, a Republican at the time, served as secretary of state from 1973 to 1975. Current Secretary of State Natalie Tennant released a statement Sunday saying she was heartbroken by the news of Heiskell’s death.
“I have had the fortune over the last couple of years to work with Secretary Heiskell on several occasions through the Secretary of State’s office, including his participation in our “Why I Vote” video series this September,” Tennant said. “I always enjoyed talking with him about the history of the state and of the Office. West Virginia has lost a true West Virginian and someone who loved the state dearly and gave of himself and his time to his state.”
Heiskell was born in Morgantown and graduated from West Virginia University in 1963 with A.B. in political science then went on to graduate from the University of Virginia School of Law.
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito also released a statement in connection with Heiskell’s death:
“West Virginia lost a patriot, a wonderful public servant and a tireless advocate with the passing of Hike Heiskell. Hike was a dashing, sincere man, and we were lucky to have him as a friend who always stood with us. Our prayers are with the Heiskell family during this trying time.”
Heiskell led the West Virginia Republican Party as its chairman from 1987 to 1990.