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Brainerd's Mayor James Wallin Dies

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- James Wallin, the longtime mayor of Brainerd, has died.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar released a statement Saturday afternoon about the mayor's passing.

"I was saddened to hear of the passing of Brainerd Mayor James Wallin, and my thoughts and prayers are with his wife Minna, the Wallin family, and the entire Brainerd community," Klobuchar said. "James was a kind and passionate public servant who always put the needs of Brainerd and its people first. He loved Brainerd and Brainerd loved him back. He was a good man who will be missed by all."

Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport's Facebook page says Wallin's death was also confirmed by the mayor's twin brother, John Wallin. His brother said Wallin died of cardiac arrest Saturday at about 3 a.m.

Joe Brenny of Brenny Funeral Chapel in Pequot Lakes says Wallin passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.

State Sen. Carrie Rudd gave her condolences Saturday morning on Twitter.

Wallin was first elected mayor of Brainerd in 1998.

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