Steven L. Reeves, 32, a high-ranking congressional staffer for Rep. Larry Bucshon, R-Ind., was found dead Tuesday in an Evansville, Ind., hotel room.

He held numerous positions on Bucshon’s staff and served most recently as deputy chief of staff and district director in the congressman’s Evansville district office.

Reeves died of natural causes, according to the Vanderburgh County Coroner.

Bucshon released a statement mourning the loss, calling Reeves a valued colleague, loyal friend and member of the family.

“Motivated by a genuine compassion for others, he worked to help eradicate AIDS in Africa before serving the 8th District in our office. He spent much of his life dedicated to serving his country, bettering his community, and improving the lives of others. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends through this difficult and private time.”

Other members of Bucshon’s staff described Reeves as a passionate, supportive and trusted colleague.

“Steven had an endearing personality that could provide comedic relief to any situation,” said Nick McGee, press secretary for Bucshon. “He was a loyal friend and tremendous mentor with a unique ability to drive his colleagues to perform at their best. Steven was a strong leader and visionary for our office with great attention to detail.”

Dean Lester, office administrator for Bucshon, praised Reeves’ professional approach to their work.

“Whether it was dealing with upset constituents, attending local meetings or handling office matters, his matter-of-fact style was effective and productive. I will miss Steven’s sharp wit, enigmatic smile and [the] teasing humor he brought to the office on a daily basis, which seemed to lift the spirits of everyone around him.”

Reeves lived in Princeton, Ind., most of his life and was a graduate of Indiana University, according to an obituary released by the office. He was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Princeton, Ind., the Knights of Columbus and the Evansville Rotary.

A visitation is scheduled for 3 to 8 p.m. on Sunday at the Colvin Funeral Home in Princeton, Ind. There will be a mass and burial on Monday.

Memorial contributions may be made to Gibson County Animal Services.