Associated School Boards of South Dakota extends deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Representative Craig Tieszen.

 

Rep. Tieszen was a courageous, honorable man and, along with the many that knew and loved him, the people of South Dakota have lost a dedicated public servant.

 

“We’re extremely saddened by the news of Rep. Tieszen’s untimely passing,” ASBSD Executive Director Wade Pogany said. “He was such a great man to work with. He was straightforward, honest and honorable in his work in the legislature.”

 

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Rep. Tieszen’s loved ones.”

 

Rep. Tieszen spent decades serving the Rapid City community in law enforcement and as Chief of Police before joining the legislature in 2009, first as a Senator and then recently as a member of the House of Representatives.

 

Rep. Tieszen was instrumental in helping pass the legislative package that increased teacher salaries in South Dakota, first as a member of the Blue Ribbon Task Force and then as an advocate for the recommendations to become law.

 

“I will miss working with Rep. Tieszen in the Capitol, but I’ll remember him, and our conversations, fondly,” Pogany said.

 

“We’ve lost a courageous and honorable South Dakota citizen, but the example he’s set for us all carries on.”