WATERTOWN, Conn. (AP) — State Auditor Robert Kane, a former Connecticut state senator, was found dead Friday by police making a check at his home at the request of his family.

Kane, 53, “took pride in his public service on behalf of his constituents, understanding he was their voice,” said Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont in a statement.

“He then assumed the role of state auditor, working on behalf of all taxpayers,” Lamont said. “All public servants should be commended for their work on behalf of our residents, and Rob took his work seriously. He will be missed at the Capitol.”

Kane had been a Republican state senator for 8 years, until his appointment as state auditor in 2017.

Connecticut Senate Republican Leader Kevin Kelly said Kane served with “skill, style and compassion.”

“We in the state senate were proud to call him our friend and colleague,” he said. “We will miss his smile, his laugh, and his positive presence at the State Capitol.”

Watertown Police Chief Joshua Bernegger told the Republican-American that the cause of Kane’s death was unknown, and an autopsy was scheduled for Saturday.

News outlets report Kane is survived by two children.