Family announces passing of Steve Uhlfelder, an 'exemplary example' and a force for Florida

Tapped by six governors to help Florida work through a wide range of issues, Tallahassee attorney Steve Uhlfelder wore many hats. He was a corporate lawyer, state official, children's advocate, civic fundraiser and media consultant.

In a statement to the Tallahassee Democrat, the family announced he passed away at the age of 76. Here is the full statement.

"Steve Uhlfelder, 76, one of the most respected and accomplished attorneys and lobbyists in modern Florida history, died early this morning after a long and courageous struggle with Parkinson's Disease and some other health issues. His family expressed their love and appreciation for Steve's life and career – and his deep dedication and devotion to family and his many selfless contributions to make the world a better place.

Among Steve's many volunteer roles, he formerly served as the Chairman of the Board of Regents for Florida's state university system, chair of the global Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board, Executive Director of Florida's Constitution Revision Commission, among many others. He was the architect of Governor Jeb Bush's statewide mentoring initiative that inspired thousands of adults to get helpfully involved in the lives of children. He also was honored with the national "Point of Light" award by President George W. Bush.

Additional information about a memorial service in Steve's honor, to be held in Tallahassee, will be shared in the near future."

Public relations executive Ron Sachs, who passed along the statement from family, said Uhlfelder was his friend since he was 18 and his college days at the University of Florida.

"Steve was one of the most influential and impactful positive forces in the state for his entire life -- always a champion for children and important causes. His exemplary example will continue to inspire all of us who knew him," Sachs said.

Remembering the life and legacy:Retiring lobbyist Steve Uhlfelder made a difference for Florida | Cotterell

Q&A:News Service of Florida has five questions for Steve Uhlfelder

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Steve Uhlfelder passes at 76: His Florida life and legacy