(Updated) New Mexico Officials (and President Obama) Respond to Passing of Stewart Udall

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Update: President Barack Obama released the following statement on Stewart Udall's passing:

“For the better part of three decades, Stewart Udall served this nation honorably. Whether in the skies above Italy in World War II, in Congress or as Secretary of the Interior, Stewart Udall left an indelible mark on this nation and inspired countless Americans who will continue his fight for clean air, clean water and to maintain our many natural treasures. Michelle and I extend our condolences to the entire Udall family who continue his legacy of public service to this day.”
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Public figures in New Mexico are releasing statements in response to the death of Stewart Udall in Santa Fe today, at age 90 (see family statement). I'll be adding to this as more come in.

Governor Bill Richardson ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and released the following statement following the news of the death of former Interior Secretary Stewart Udall:

“Stewart Udall was a giant in conservation and the father of America’s wilderness and national park system,” Governor Richardson said. “The Udall family, led by Stewart, symbolized a new environmentally conscious West.”

U.S. Rep. Martin Heinrich (NM-01): “It was with great sadness that I learned of Stewart Udall’s passing. His public service and his leadership were truly an inspiration to me. Stewart Udall will never be forgotten, as his legacy is all around us in our National Parks and public lands.”

U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Luján (NM-03):

“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of former Interior Secretary Stewart Udall,” said Rep. Luján. “Secretary Udall was a great American and a great New Mexican whose legacy is visible throughout our country. Throughout his long and distinguished career in public service, Secretary Udall worked tirelessly to stand up for the people whose voices were otherwise not heard and to protect resources that will serve us for years to come. Secretary Udall’s compassion and pragmatism are a model for all, and his actions left a legacy that we will remember and honor for generations. My thoughts and prayers are with Secretary Udall’s family at this difficult time.”

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Congressman Harry Teague (NM-02):

“Secretary Stewart Udall was a man who faithfully served his country. A veteran and dedicated public servant, his contributions to the people of our state will live on as we continue his work to protect our public lands and enjoy the benefits of our wilderness areas and National Parks. My condolences go out to the entire Udall family who, for decades, have dedicated their lives to public service and the American people.”

Democratic Party of New Mexico Chairman Javier Gonzales:

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Secretary Udall's family,” said Gonzales. “New Mexican's and Americans, alike, were truly blessed to have had such an extraordinary public servant stand up and work tirelessly for us, on a daily basis. A once in a lifetime leader, Secretary Udall's impact on our state and our country will never be forgotten. In his memory, we will continue to fight for the beliefs he spent a lifetime advocating."

Morris K. Udall Foundation:

“Today Stewart L. Udall departed from the Earth he loved so much, but his spirit will always be with us. His legacy of honor and conservation of the land is a gift to every generation and every part of America. The Udall Foundation is both humbled and proud to carry his work forward.” Terry L. Bracy, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Udall Foundation