Damon Nelson, the staff director for the House Intelligence Committee, died Saturday following a brief illness.

Intelligence Chairman Devin Nunes, Nelson’s boss, shared the news in a statement expressing “deep sorrow” for the death of his employee and friend. The California Republican did not provide further detail about Nelson’s illness. Nelson died at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Maryland.

“Having known Damon all the way back to our days together at Tulare Union High School, I have lost one of my oldest friends — someone whom my wife, my three daughters, and I regarded as an extended family member,” Nunes said.

“My offices will no longer ring with Damon’s infectious laugh, which brightened the mood on even the most stressful days,” he added. “He was an expert at finding the humor in any situation and was quick with a well-timed joke. He exhibited a rare combination of good humor, hard work, incredible intelligence, deep patriotism, and selfless dedication to others that made him one of the most exceptional people I’ve ever met.”