LANSING, Mich. — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags lowered at all state buildings and grounds in honor of late Gov. William G. Milliken.
Milliken was Michigan's longest-serving governor. He died Friday at age 97.
Whitmer said Saturday the flags should be displayed at half-staff on all state buildings, grounds and facilities through Nov. 1. They're being lowered for 14 days to honor each year Milliken served as Michigan's chief executive.
Whitmer, a Democrat, called Milliken "a true statesman who led our state with integrity and honor."
“Governor Milliken was a true statesman who led our state with integrity and honor. He had a unique ability to bring people from both sides of the aisle together for the betterment of Michigan. We are a stronger, safer, more sustainable state because of his leadership and dedication to the people who call it home. I’ve always looked up to Governor Milliken as a trusted, respected leader and I’m proud to have called him a friend of the family. I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Governor Milliken’s family for their loss. May we all continue to learn from his lifetime of service as we work together to build a stronger Michigan for everyone,” she said in a statement released Friday.
The Republican was promoted to governor from lieutenant governor in 1969 when Gov. George Romney resigned to join President Richard Nixon's administration.
Milliken subsequently won three elections but didn't run again in 1982, retiring from politics after 14 years as Michigan's governor.
Want to see more local news ? Visit the FOX47News Website.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Appleand Android
and
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.
Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
