One of Illinois’ business leaders has died. Todd Maisch, 57, president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, passed away Wednesday evening at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St Louis. He had been on leave from the chamber for a good part of this year because of an illness.

Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) issued a statement Thursday afternoon:

“Todd Maisch was a fierce advocate for Chambers and job creators around Illinois, as well as a devoted friend to me and our caucus.  On behalf of the Illinois House Republicans, we extend our deepest condolences to Kim, their two boys and the many he has touched over his many years of service and friendship. He will be missed!”

McCombie’s predecessor as the House’s top Republican, Jim Durkin, His relationship with Maisch goes back before Maisch’s Chamber days, when he was on House Republican staff.

“This is a Democratic-controlled state, where the influences of the labor unions are stronger than the business sector,” Durkin said in an interview, “but Todd was able to figure out a way to bridge the gap and always did that very well by working with labor and bringing labor and management together to find a common ground on a lot of thorny issues that we would deal with on a regular basis.”

Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza issued the following statement:

“I am so heartbroken to hear the news about Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd Maisch passing away at 57. His departure leaves such a void in Illinois. He worked so hard to find bipartisan approaches to grow Illinois businesses. He understood we are all in this together. I treasure the time I spent with him, listening to him, speaking to his board. Democrats and Republicans around the state should all take a moment to honor Todd Maisch today for his advocacy for Illinois businesses. Our condolences go out to his wife and sons. May he rest in God’s peace and eternal glory.”

Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Hillside) issued the following statement:

“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Illinois Chamber of Commerce President Todd Maisch.

“Todd was a fierce champion for the business community and an integral part of major policy wins for our economy, namely the Blue Collar Jobs Act and the historic Rebuild Illinois capital bill. Though Todd and I often found ourselves at opposite ends of policy debates, I knew he was driven by an adoration for our state and a sincere commitment to doing what he believed was right.

“I send my condolences and prayers to his family, friends, and the Illinois Chamber community. May your memories bring you comfort during this time of mourning.”

Illinois Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) issued the following statement:

“Todd Maisch was a statehouse fixture and synonymous with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce. A fierce defender of and astute negotiator for the business community, Todd was also a genuinely likable person who could find the path forward among adversaries. He departs this world far too soon. My sympathies and thoughts go out to his family and friends.”

Maisch, married and the father of two, had been with the chamber since 1994 and its leader since 2014.