FARGO (KFGO Prairie Public) – Former North Dakota House Majority Leader Earl Strinden has died at age 90.
The Grand Forks Republican was first elected to the North Dakota Legislature in 1966. He served until 1988. He was the Republican House leader since 1975. Strinden ran for US Senate in 1988, but was defeated by incumbent Democratic Senator Quentin Burdick.
Strinden also served as the CEO of the UND Alumni Association, from 1969 to 2000.
In a statement, the current CEO of the Alumni Association and Foundation, DeAnna Carlson Zink, says Strinden was a mentor. She said Strinden would often say that a goal in life is to “leave the woodpile higher for those that came after us.” She said Strinden did that.
Sen. John Hoeven also released a statement saying Strinden leaves a legacy of service and dedicated decades of his life to bettering his community, state, and nation.
“From his role as House Majority Leader to his pivotal contributions to UND, Earl’s contributions to the growth and prosperity of Grand Forks and North Dakota will be felt for years to come,” Hoeven said. “Mikey and I extend our appreciation for his tremendous work and offer our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Sen. Kevin Cramer issued a statement as well, calling Strinden a born leader and political legend.
“(Strinden) earned the respect of his colleagues with his wry humor, skill at consensus building, and sincere interest in their lives,” Cramer said. “He influenced the political and public service careers of many people, myself included, and set a very high bar for future generations to follow. Kris and I send our deepest condolences to his family.”
Funeral arrangements are pending.
