Former Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives Charles Kurfess died Friday at age 94.

Kurfess served as a state representative from 1957-1978, and was Speaker of the House from 1967-1972.

Following his retirement, he served two terms as a Wood County Court of Common Pleas judge.

On Saturday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine issued a statement on Kurfess’ death.

“Fran and I are saddened to hear of the death of former Ohio House Speaker Chuck Kurfess. Chuck was a true public servant who represented Northwest Ohio so very well, serving in both the House and as Wood County Common Pleas judge. As speaker, he always looked at the big picture of what was best for all Ohioans and for our children. Through the years when I visited Bowling Green, I would often see him, and I always enjoyed our conversations. He always stayed in touch with what was going on in Ohio, and I appreciated his wise counsel over the years. Fran and I extend our sincerest condolences to Chuck’s family.”

Marsh & Marsteller Funeral Homes is handling arrangements. Visitation is planned for Friday from 4-7 p.m. with the service Saturday at 11 a.m., both at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Stony Ridge.