North Dakota Mourns Loss of Lt Gov's Husband, Dr. Tom Strinden.

North Dakota's Second Gentleman, Dr. Tom Strinden, the husband of North Dakota Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden, has died after a nearly year-and-a-half-long battle with brain cancer.

North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong says Strinden passed on Sunday surrounded by friends and family at their lake home. According to the governor, Strinden fought cancer the same way he lived his life—with an unshakable faith in his savior Jesus Christ and an unwavering commitment to family.

Armstrong released an official statement about the passing of Strinden.

“Tom was Michelle’s biggest fan, encouraging her to enter public service and supporting her journey to the Legislature and lieutenant governor’s office,” Armstrong says. “Even after his cancer diagnosis and initial surgery, he returned to his work as a gifted eye surgeon who cared deeply about his patients and improving their quality of life. From coaching and supporting hockey programs to hunting and fishing with his kids, to making regular medical mission trips around the globe, Tom lived life to the fullest – with the happiness of others always his top priority. Our hearts go out to Michelle, Jacob, Joe, Ben, Sarah, and the entire Strinden and Strecker families. We ask all North Dakotans to pray for them as they grieve this enormous loss.”

Strinden was a partner at Bagen, Strinden, and Strinden Vision, and he was also the son of Earl Strinden, who served as the former North Dakota House majority leader. He is survived by the lieutenant governor and their children Jacob, Joe, Ben, and Sarah.