A sad occurrence in the state of Colorado now has caused a vacant seat in its State House, as a member running for reelection unopposed has suddenly passed away.

On Sunday, Colorado State House Republicans announced the sudden death of their minority leader, leaving the leadership spot open and a position in the House open in an assembly that is currently Democrat-controlled. Protocols indicate that it could be a month before an appointment is made to fill the seat. Lack of opposition in his race to regain his seat as an incumbent denotes that he was seen as a member-elect, not a candidate and so an appointment is in order.

CBS News reported what will happen next given he was running for re-election in November’s midterms:

“McKean was working on his own re-election but was running unopposed in the District 51 race. Because he was unopposed, McKean will be considered a member-elect of the legislature, the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office explained. A vacancy committee will meet within a month of McKean’s death to begin the process of filling his House seat. That vacancy committee will be established by the Larimer County Republican Party in accordance with state statutes.”

Funeral services are being planned and details will be made public once finalized, according to a statement from Colorado House Republicans. An autopsy was performed by the Larimer County Coroner’s Office, which posted that McKean died of a heart attack.

Republicans remember one of their own. Colorado GOP Chairwoman Kristi Burton Brown stated she and her family were “devastated” and deeply saddened by McKean’s sudden death.

“Hugh was a friend, a Republican leader, and a good man who worked for a better life for families all across Colorado,” Burton Brown wrote. “Whenever I saw him or spoke to him, he had an encouraging word and was ready to lift others up. Whenever I think of Hugh McKean, I’ll think of his smile and his positive outlook on life.”

Dee Dee, a candidate for Colorado State Representative, tweeted: “Today, Colorado lost one of its most passionate advocates, House Minority Leader Hugh McKean. I will remember Hugh for his openness, curiosity, intellect, Rapier sharp wit, and generosity. As Colorado mourns the loss of a great leader, I mourn the loss of a mentor and a friend.”

Rep. Kerry Tipper tweeted: “Hugh often described the House as a family. Today, we are reeling. All I can think of is Hugh’s kids. Your dad loved you with all of his being. He spoke of you often in the chamber. You brought him boundless joy & he was unwaveringly proud of you.”

State Senator Rhonda Fields also spoke highly of McKean, writing on social media: “Today, I grieve the passing of House Minority Leader Hugh McKean. He served the People of Colorado with clarity, leadership, and dedication. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew him. May he Rest in Peace.”

Respected by all, Rep. McKean will be missed by colleagues on both sides of the political aisle. He was held in high esteem by members of the Democratic Party as well as his own.

Colorado Democrat Sen. John Hickenlooper tweeted: “Such a tragic loss for our state. Hugh was a tireless advocate for his constituents and was dedicated to improving the lives of all Coloradans. Robin and I send our condolences to his wife, children, and loved ones during this difficult time.”

The official Twitter account of the Colorado Democratic Party tweeted: “We’re sad and shocked to hear of the passing of House Minority Leader Hugh McKean. The Colorado Democratic Party extends their deepest condolences to Hugh’s family. We will always remember his warmth even in times of disagreement, and honor his commitment to public service,” Conservative Brief reports.