Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and on all public buildings and grounds throughout the state of Michigan, to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday, November 12, to honor the life and service of former Congressman Bob Traxler.

“Congressman Traxler embodied everything that it means to be a Michigander. He loved his family, his constituents, and the state that he served,” Whitmer said. “Bob was an effective leader because he worked tirelessly to deliver results even when nobody was paying attention. Our state is stronger due to his service, and he will be dearly missed.”

Former Congressman Bob Traxler began his career in public service as a member of the United States Army. He served as an assistant prosecutor in Bay County before being elected to the Michigan House of Representatives. In 1974, Traxler was elected to Congress during a special election where he served until his retirement in 1993. In the years after his retirement, he served on the Mackinac Island State Park Commission and the Michigan State Board of Trustees.

Traxler passed away on Wednesday, October 30 at 88 years old. His ashes will be buried in Mackinac Island Public Cemetery.

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor and selfless service of former Congressman Bob Traxler by lowering flags to half-staff. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations also are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.

Flags should be returned to full-staff on Wednesday, November 13, 2019.