A statement from the Allen County Public Information Office announced Friday evening that County Councilman Roy Buskirk died after losing a battle with cancer. He was 72.

The statement follows:

"It is with deep regret and tremendous sadness that we learned this evening of the passing of County Councilman Roy Buskirk, who lost his battle with cancer after accomplishing so much good for the citizens of Allen County.

Roy leaves behind a proud legacy of integrity, selflessness and excellence. As an elected official, he embodied the highest ideals of public service, always doing what he believed was right, not just what was popular. He was a fiscal conservative who held a steadfast belief that "less government is the best government." The programs and policies that he helped implement during his tenure on the council will serve Allen County well, not just for the present but for many years to come.

Besides his work on County Council, Roy also served on the county's redevelopment commission, the Allen County Plan Commission, and the Joint Permitting Oversight Board.

Roy was a friend to us, as he was to many, and he will be greatly missed. We shall forever be grateful to him for his counsel, friendship and words of wisdom.

Our sincere prayers are with his wife, Karen, his children and loved ones, and may they find some comfort knowing that Roy has made Allen County a better place.

As a tribute to Roy's enduring legacy, we are directing flags at all county buildings to half-staff beginning Monday morning."