Longtime Dayton Cabinet Member Has Died

St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - An original member of Governor Mark Dayton’s cabinet has died.

A statement issued by the Governor’s office says Bureau of Mediation Services Commissioner Josh Tilsen passed away early today with his wife and other family members at his side. He was 67-years-old. The statement says his death was caused by complications resulting from a staph infection he contracted last week that caused his condition to quickly worsen.

The following is a statement from Governor Mark Dayton:

“Our entire Administration is deeply mourning today. Commissioner Tilsen was our good friend, an important leader of our team, and a superb public servant. We will greatly miss his talent, expertise, and good humor. We offer our support to Josh’s wife, Faith, and the Tilsen family, as they mourn this tragic loss.

“Josh Tilsen devoted his career to improving the lives of Minnesotans. During his 29 years of service at the Bureau of Mediation Services, he demonstrated an extraordinary ability to bring people together to mediate complex contracts and resolve contentious disputes."

Tilsen was appointed by the governor head the Bureau of Mediation Services in 2011. He had been an employee of the department since 1988 after working as union representative in the Twin Cities.

Funeral arrangements are pending.