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Former Colorado Governor Dick Lamm dies at 85

Lamm died Thursday due to complications from a pulmonary embolism, his wife said in a statement.

COLORADO, USA — Former Colorado Governor Dick Lamm has died, according to a statement released by his wife.

Dottie Lamm, a former First Lady of Colorado, issued the following statement concerning the Thursday evening passing of her husband.

"With great sadness, but also gratitude for a life well lived and in service to his beloved Colorado, I want to share the news of the death of my husband, former Governor Richard D. Lamm.

He would have turned 86 next Tuesday but passed away yesterday evening surrounded by his family, following complications from a pulmonary embolism earlier in the week."

> Above video: Lamm sat down with 9NEWS in 2018.

Lamm served a governor from 1975 to 1987. He may be best known for convincing Coloradans to reject the 1976 Olympics.

Credit: AP Photo/David Zalubowski
Former Colorado Gov. Dick Lamm on March 10, 2018.

Details about services and opportunities for remembrance will be released soon.

Gov. Jared Polis (D-Colo) released a statement and ordered flags lowered at state buildings across the state on the day of the service:

"I’m very saddened to hear about the passing of former Governor Dick Lamm and send my condolences to Dottie and his entire family. I thank Governor Lamm for his service to the state of Colorado both as Governor and his many years teaching. Gov. Lamm took on tough issues, and he never shied away from civil political discourse and embraced collaboration. Gov. Lamm’s legacy and leadership will be remembered in our state’s history as well as his work to make Colorado an even more amazing place."

RELATED: Why former Gov. Dick Lamm opposes Olympics, Amazon in Colorado 

Attorney General Phil Weiser released the following statement regarding the death of former Governor Dick Lamm:

“Dick Lamm loved Colorado. Our state has lost an important leader and I have lost a valued colleague and friend. Governor Lamm—as a teacher, elected official, and leader—touched so many lives and served our state with great distinction. My thoughts go out to Dottie and his family. I will miss his support and friendship. His memory will live on as a blessing.”

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Current U.S. Senator and former Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper also issued a statement on Lamm's passing.

“Governor Lamm is a classic example of a life well-lived and he brought Colorado along for the ride for three terms as governor. He showed you could have the courage of your convictions and make the times catch up to you rather than wait for change. I’m grateful for his mentorship and know his mark on Colorado will endure for years to come.”

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