HUDSONVILLE, Mich. (WZZM) -- Former Michigan state senator and representative William Van Regenmorter of Hudsonville has died.

Van Regenmorter was a Calvin College graduate who began serving in the state senate in 1990, before moving to the house in 2002. He decided not to run for re-election in 2006.

Van Regenmorter was the key author of Michigan's crime victim's rights amendment.

U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga issued a statement Monday night:

"Today the state of Michigan lost one of its most respected statesmen. Senator Van Regenmorter was a staple in the community, who led by example and was not only a valued mentor to me but a trusted friend as well. His advice and counsel to me for over 25 years has proven to be invaluable in both my personal and professional life. One of my greatest honors was to have served alongside him for four years in the state legislature.

We do not have details of Van Regenmorter's death. Funeral arrangements are pending.

William Van Regenmorter was 73 years old.