GOP leader Mike Whalley dies at 54

New Hampshire House Minority Leader Michael Whalley has died at age 54.

Whalley (R-Alton) who had been fighting a cancerous brain tumor, died Saturday of complications from a recent fall on the ice, his family said.

He was serving his eight term in the House, and had served as deputy speaker under former Speaker Gene Chandler. He had been campaigning for speaker in 2006 when political winds shifted and Democrats won majorities in the House and Senate.

"The job description just changed," Whalley noted of his new role in the minority. "We're not going to win many battles, if any, but we still have a responsibility to point out our differences and stand on our principles."

Originally elected to the House, in 1992, representing Bow, Whalley later moved to Alton Bay and, in 2002, successfully ran for a seat representing the Belknap County towns of Alton, Barnstead, Belmont and Gilford.

Republican Party Chairman Fergus Cullen of Wolfeboro said few others would have met that challenge as well as Whalley.

"Mike Whalley's word was to be trusted. He had the leadership skills to keep a diverse caucus working together," Cullen said. "He always put the interests of the state of New Hampshire first and political considerations second, including his own hope to become speaker one day."

Democratic Party Chairman Ray Buckley, who worked with Whalley for many years asa fellow House member praised Whalley's dedication to his party and commitment to the state. "His courage throughout his health struggle this year was remarkable," he said.

In an e-mail to colleagues, House Speaker Terie Norelli said Whalley had earned a well-deserved reputation as a hard-working and conscientious legislator. "He was one of the first legislators I met upon entering the House, and I grew to admire his passion and commitment to the legislative process. Like many legislators, Mike realized that the relationships that we build are the most important part of service, and he said so when he so eloquently when he addressed his colleagues on the House floor earlier this year.

Gov. John Lynch called Whalley a dedicated public servant who worked hard for his constituents. "He will be remembered as a strong leader and good friend who showed tremendous strength and dignity in the face of adversity.

U.S. Sen. John Sununu (R-N.H.) said he will miss Whalley's friendship and thoughtful voice.

"Mike served New Hampshire in the finest traditions of our state — he was a citizen legislator, a leader of great integrity, and always kept a genuine sense of humility and humor," he said. "The courage and grace which marked his battle with cancer inspires us all the more to keep his memory alive as we serve the public."

U.S. Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.) offered his own tribute. "Mike was on those truly unique New Hampshire public servants. Whether he was working with his brother running a successful family business, or enjoying his family and friends on a beautiful summers day on Lake Winnipesaukee, Mike always found time to give back to his community and state with his loyal and dedicated service as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives," he said.

Whalley, a graduate of Bishop Brady High School in Concord and the University of New Hampshire, was a co-founder and co-owner, with his brother Steven Whalley of Laconia, of HK Powersports in Hooksett, Tilton and Laconia. Another brother, Jim Whalley of Bow, is also now a partner in the business.

Mike Whalley is survived by his wife Purr and two children, John and Caitlin.

A funeral service has been planned for Saint Katherine Drexel Roman Catholic Church in Alton on Thursday, March 6 at 11 a.m.

(See obituary on page 19.)

(Laconia Daily Sun staff contributed to this report)