Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice N. Patrick Crooks Dies In Office

Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice N. Patrick Crooks died Monday in his chambers, the court’s chief justice confirmed. Judge Crooks was 77 and planned to retire when his term was to end next year.

Supreme Court Chief Justice Patience Drake Roggensack issued the following statement:

“Justice Crooks was an outstanding jurist, a thoughtful decision-maker and a colleague with a wonderful Irish sense of humor. In addition to having served as a circuit court judge and on the Supreme Court, Justice Crooks made significant contributions to the legal profession as a lawyer and a teacher. He was a good friend and colleague, and he will be greatly missed by all.”

Chief Justice Roggensack spoke with Justice Crooks’ family members, who confirmed that he passed away today in his chambers at the state Capitol, The Associated Press reported.

Gov. Scott Walker could appoint someone to fill Crooks’ seat ahead of the election, the AP reported. Walker spokeswoman Laurel Patrick told the AP that the governor would decide what to do “at a more appropriate time.”