One-term Rep. Frank Cremeans (R-Ohio) died Jan. 2 of complications from a brief respiratory illness. The 59-year-old had also been suffering from neuropathy, a deterioration of the nervous system.

His single victory, over Rep. Ted Strickland (D) in 1994, came amid the Republican Revolution when he edged the incumbent out with just 51 percent of the vote.

During his two years in the House, Cremeans served on the Resources and Banking and Financial Services panels, and he supported the massive overhaul of the welfare system mandating work requirements for recipients of government aid.

After losing his bid for re-election in 1996, Cremeans tried again in 1998, but failed to receive the Republican nomination that cycle.

The longtime teacher and school administrator also owned and operated a concrete and supply business with his son, John.

Cremeans, a native of Gallipolis, Ohio, received a bachelor’s from the University of Rio Grande and a master’s in school administration from Ohio University in 1969.

He is survived by two daughters, a son and two grandchildren.

— Bree Hocking