Gov. Chet Culver provided public condolences to the family of U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy today in an official statement. Culver’s father, former U.S. Sen. John Culver, was a personal friend of Kennedy long before the two met in the halls of Congress.

Here is the governor’s statement:

This is a very sad day for America. My prayers are with the Senator’s wife Vicki, his children, family members and all of those who loved him.

Senator Kennedy was truly the lion and leader of the U.S. Senate, regardless of one’s party affiliation. His record of accomplishment is unmatched. Ted Kennedy was a kind and gentle public servant who cared passionately about people across the country and around the world, especially those without a voice. He fought every day for 47 years in the Senate to improve lives and help people achieve their hopes and dreams.

On a personal note, my father was a dear friend of Ted’s for nearly 60 years. They were teammates on the football field as college freshmen in 1950. In addition, they served together in the U.S. Congress for 16 years. So, Mari and I were very fortunate to spend some wonderful times together with the Senator and his family. We will always cherish those memories and miss him a great deal.

Senator Kennedy had a wonderful sense of humor, he was always there for his family and friends, and he had an unwavering faith and a generosity of spirit. These qualities and his record in public service will continue to serve as an example to all of us.