The Bismarck Tribune

GOV. ARTHUR G. SORLIE

Gov. Arthur G. Sorlie died as he lived; fighting bravely unto the end.

Today North Dakota mourns the passing of a popular chief executive; thousands of her people mourn an untimely end of a kindly, loyal friend whose sunny optimism was a constant benediction, and an inspiration.

Deepest sympathy goes out to the bereaved family who have lost a dear one, cut down in the very prime of life; a life that could ill be spared with so many promising years ahead.

Conscientious to the public trust imposed upon him by the people of this state, Gov. Sorlie overtaxed a heart none too strong when he assumed the governorship. He worked early and late for the state he loved and for the people whose welfare was always his first consideration. Those who were favored by his friendship and entered into close social contact with him, know how keenly he felt the responsibilities of the office, how generously he gave of his mental and physical powers to public service.

Gov. Sorlie was a man of few words where his own acts of sacrifice were concerned. It was not unusual for him to drive through the entire night, facing inclement weather to be on time at a conference or to appear at some public gathering. His word was always as good as his bond. He always shot fairly.

In his home, the Governor was especially happy. He was essentially a home man and home was always an ideal refuge from the cares of office; from the turmoil of partisan politics which wore him down and contributed to his death. He died in the harness and until a day or so of his death, he was not unmindful of his official responsibilities. Virtually from his death bed, he sent a wire in connection with the threatened railroad strike.

The accomplishments of the Sorlie administration were many. He entered office at a time when factionalism was bitter, but he played the political game like a gentleman. His rules were unusual as his results were unusual. He refused to indulge in reprisals. He kept many political opponents in positions whose removal he felt would impede public service. He attempted at all time to apply business principles to the handling of state affairs. Despite the bitterness some of his policies engendered, he stuck by his guns valiantly. He found time and employed great tact in bringing about a better feeling in public affairs of this state. He brought the farmer and businessmen closer together. In harmonizing a condition that threatened great harm to this state Gov. Sorlie performed a distinct public service which the people of the state cannot commend too highly.

He threw himself into the marketing problems of the state. Ever ready to advertise North Dakota products he traveled the length and breadth of this nation speaking from public platform, over radio, in countless interviews and his message was always one of optimism; one of promotion for the best interests of North Dakota and her people.

In the conduct of details of state government, he instituted many reforms of a business nature. The door to his executive office was always open. He had a kindly word, a hearty handshake for everyone.

Arthur G. Sorlie belonged to the ranks of those men who helped make this great state. He was a pioneer in the business life of the state. Few men knew the state better or could articulate its problems in language more direct, forceful and convincing.

In the scope of one editorial, it is impossible to touch upon the many activities of Gov. Sorlie. He was tireless in public service. Board meetings had his closest attention and few governors were on the job so many and so long hours as was Gov. Sorlie.

Walter Maddock succeeds to the high office of governor. Of the same political following as Gov. Sorlie, he doubtless will follow the same general policies. A state shocked by the sad news of today will lock arms with Walter Maddock to the end that the few months of public service ahead of him will run smoothly and effectively.