Former Illinois Governor and longtime Democratic politician Dan Walker has passed away.
Walker was the state's 36th governor and served one term from 1973 to 1977. He died Wednesday, April 29, 2015 at the age of 92.
During his term, Walker authorized the Illinois Lottery and the Regional Transportation Authority, according to Chicago Tribune.
As he was campaigning for his term, Walker walked 1,197 miles across the state during the summer of 1971, the Chicago Sun Times reported.
"It's remarkable to me how many people remember that walk, Walker's son, Dan Walker Jr. said to the Sun Times.
A decade after his term as governor, Walker spent about a year and five months in federal prison after pleading guilty to charges of bank fraud and perjury. The charges were related to loans he acquired under false pretenses, according to the Sun Times.
Walker also served in the military during WWII and the Korean War.
"Diana and I are saddened to learn of the passing of former Gov. Dan Walker," said Governor Bruce Rauner. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time."