TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) _ Veteran state Rep. Ted Powers has died from complications following a major stroke. He was 73.

The House speaker's office says Powers died Tuesday night at Via Christi Regional Medical Center in Wichita. He was surrounded by family members, the speaker's office said.

He'd suffered a stroke Monday night.

The Mulvane Republican, a retired music teacher, had served in the House since 1993. He was known for lightening up debates with humorous comments and, occasionally, a song.

But Speaker Melvin Neufeld says Powers had a serious side when it came to supporting public schools.

A statement by the Kansas GOP described Powers as "an exceptional man, and his commitment to the State of Kansas will be missed. A champion of public education.

"During his 13 years in office, he served with humor and dignity. Our deepest condolences go out to Ted’s family during this difficult time.”

Governor Sebelius paid respects to both powers 14 years as a state legislature and career as a music teacher, saying "thoughts and prayers are with his wife Betty Mae, their three children, his entire family, and his friends and colleagues."

Visiting Hours will be Friday, May 16th from 1:00-8:00 p.m. at:
Senter-Smith Morturary
501 S.E. Louis Blvd
Mulvane, KS
(316) 777-1632

Funeral services will be Saturday, May 17th at 2:00 p.m. at:
Mulvane Christian Church
502 Highland Park St.
Mulvane, KS

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)