SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO) — South Dakotans, from all backgrounds and all political persuasions, gathered Friday to honor the life of former U.S. Senator Tim Johnson.
Hundreds of people turned out for Johnson’s funeral in Sioux Falls.
Johnson, who as a Democrat served nearly 30 years on Capitol Hill, was remembered for his commitment to his family and to the people of South Dakota.
Those sentiments were echoed by prominent Republicans who also attended the service.
Political VIP’s who paid tribute to the late Senator Tim Johnson included former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle.
“We were more than just legislative partners, we were brothers. I treasure the memory, the friendship and the gifts he gave me all my life,” Daschle said.
“It was an amazing service today,” Gov. Kristi Noem said.
Governor Noem says it was important for her to be at Johnson’s funeral because of the kindness he showed her early in her career.
“I was new to the political arena and government when he was a U.S. Senator and he always answered all my questions, was thoughtful toward my family, just a real blessing,” Noem said.
People attending the funeral praised Johnson’s willingness to reach across the aisle.
“For me, he was a guy that I could talk to about lots of different policy issues and look, we were from different parties, but that didn’t mean we didn’t care about the things that were really important,” said Sen. Mike Rounds, (R) South Dakota.
“Tim and I served in a different era. Today, it’s so much more polarized, contentious, politicized, it’s very unfortunate. I hope we can come back to those days where Republicans and Democrats can work together,” Daschle said.
On this day, both Democrats and Republicans sharing the same church pews as well as sharing an admiration for Johnson’s tireless work serving the people of South Dakota.
“He was a man of character and integrity and so as sad as today is, we celebrate that legacy, that heritage and grieve with his family,” said Sen. John Thune, (R) South Dakota.
“I respected him from the first time I met him. I never lost that respect,” Rounds said.
Daschle also praised Johnson’s resilience and determination in overcoming a near-fatal brain hemorrhage to serve out his term in the senate and run successfully for re-election.
