Wyoming Sen. Thomas Dead at 74

In this undated photo downloaded from Sen. Craig Thomas' official Web site, Sen. Craig Thomas, R-Wyo., is shown. Thomas, a three-term conservative Republican who stayed clear of the Washington limelight and political catfights, died Monday June 4, 2007. He was 74. He had been receiving chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia. (AP Photo//thomas.senate.gov-File) (Anonymous - AP)

"He leaves a lasting legacy as a guardian of Wyoming's lands and resources and our country's National Parks," Bush said.

Vice President Dick Cheney, who held Wyoming's only House seat before Thomas replaced him in 1989, called Thomas a friend and said "he never let us down."

"Even in a time of serious illness Craig was faithful to his duties in the United States Senate," Cheney said. "His passing represents a profound loss to the Senate, to Wyoming, and to America."

Thomas was a low-key lawmaker who reliably represented the interests of his conservative state, often becoming involved in public lands issues. He worked in behind-the-scenes posts to oversee national parks.

Republican Mike Enzi, Wyoming's other senator, gave an emotional speech on the Senate floor Tuesday morning, his voice cracking as he spoke of his friend.

"Craig died as he lived, with his spurs on, fighting for Wyoming until the very end," Enzi said.

The state's only member of the House, Republican Barbara Cubin, said in a statement that Thomas was "a trusted colleague and a true friend."

Wyoming Democratic Party Chairman John Millin said Thomas brought "dignity and thoughtfulness" to the political process, and Wyoming GOP Chairman Fred Parady called Thomas a "true champion."

Senate leaders delayed votes Tuesday so that members could give tributes to Thomas on the floor. Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., praised the senator's tenacity and his work on lands issues.

"He told you how he felt," Reid said.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell called Thomas "a born fighter."

"We're consoled by the thought that he'll ride again," McConnell said.

Thomas entered Congress in a special election in 1989 to replace Cheney when he was named defense secretary by the first President Bush. Thomas won that race with 52 percent of the vote.

In 1994, Thomas won his first Senate race by beating former Gov. Mike Sullivan and was re-elected with 74 percent of the vote in 2000.

Thomas had previously served five years in the Wyoming Legislature.

He was born in Cody, Wyo., and was raised on a ranch. He graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in agriculture, then served four years in the U.S. Marines.

He is survived by his wife, Susan, and four children.