Senior federal judge John Shabaz dies at 81 - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

MADISON (WKOW) -- Senior federal judge in Wisconsin's western district John Shabaz has died at age 81. Shabaz also served as a Republican state representative from 1964 to 1981 and was the minority leader from 1973 to 1979.

His wife tells the Associated Press he died Friday after an illness. Shabaz was known as a demanding, dedicated and fast-paced judge, according to the Wisconsin State Journal. He was appointed to the federal bench in 1981.

Governor Scott Walker released a statement Friday saying, "Judge Shabaz was a dedicated public servant committed to upholding the rule of law and the efficient administration of justice."

Visitation will be held Tuesday ay 2 p.m. at Eastside Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madison with funeral services at 4 p.m. Shabaz is survived by his wife, Patty and four children.