Gene Ward, who represented Hawaiʻi Kai, Kalama Valley and Portlock in the state House of Representatives, died Friday morning. He was 82.

Ward, a Republican, stepped down from the House Monday following a series of health setbacks including anemia, sciatica and pneumonia.

A press release from House Minority Floor Leader Diamond Garcia did not identify a cause of death. But Ward’s widow and daughter said he died peacefully.

“The passing of Gene Ward is a profound loss for Hawai‘i,” Gov. Josh Green said in a press release Friday. “Gene dedicated his life to public service with passion, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the people he represented.”

Green ordered the U.S. flag and the Hawaiʻi state flag be flown at half-staff at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol and at all state offices and agencies effective immediately and until sunset on Monday.

Ward served in the state House from 1990 to 1998, when he made an unsuccessful bid for the U.S. Congress. He then served as a presidential appointee under the second Bush administration.

Ward was reelected to the state House in 2006. He was a former House minority leader.

“Gene Ward was a man of vision and values,” Rep. Diamond Garcia said in a statement Friday. “His leadership was marked by wisdom, humility, and a relentless dedication to improving the lives of his constituents. He carried a deep love for the Native Hawaiian people and was passionate about protecting their culture, rights, and future.”

“Whether mentoring young leaders or championing issues close to the hearts of local families, Gene always led with heart.”

House Speaker Nadine Nakamura said in a statement, “Rep. Ward served the East Honolulu community and the state of Hawaiʻi with unwavering dedication, determination, and spirit. His institutional knowledge, leadership, and flair were appreciated by colleagues on both sides of the aisle. Ward’s contributions leave a lasting impact in the Legislature and throughout our state.”