TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KLIX)-The former publisher, editor, and Idaho legislator Stephen Hartgen passed away Friday. State Rep. Linda Hartgen, Stephen's wife, announced his passing earlier in the day saying on social media, "He fought a good fight then went home to be with our Lord and Savior. Stephen Hartgen was a principled and caring man who loved the Magic Valley and wrote about it often. He was a terrific Papa to 6 granddaughters and 2 greats…" Hartgen worked as the editor and publisher of the Twin Falls Times-News for a number of years. He was then asked by Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter to fill a vacancy in the House which he was later reelected to. Gov. Brad Little issued the following statement:

Steve was a colleague and friend who served with distinction in the Idaho House of Representatives. He was a steady leader and icon of Twin Falls, having served as editor and publisher of The Times News and in numerous economic development roles. A well-educated man, he passionately shared his opinions on important issues facing our state - right up until the days before he died. Idaho and the Magic Valley are better today because of Steve's contributions. Teresa and I send our condolences to Steve's wife, Linda Wright Hartgen, who is serving now as a member of the Idaho House of Representatives, and their five children

Hartgen also wrote a regular collum for the Times-News, you can read more about him HERE.

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