Walter Lauridsen, a Des Moines businessman and the brother-in-law of gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand, has died after being struck by a vehicle in southern Iowa Thursday night.
According to the Iowa State Patrol’s report 42-year-old Walter Lauridsen’s car was parked along Highway 34, about 10 miles from Chariton. When the driver of another vehicle going east moved into the westbound lane to go around the car, Lauridsen entered the westbound lane and was struck. The Lauridsen family has issued the following written statement:
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Walter, who died last night. This is an extremely sad and devastating time for all who knew and loved him.
“Walter was a beloved son, brother, father, and friend to many. His commitment to giving back and making our community a better place will continue to live on through the countless people he touched with Harvest Academy and Character Counts.
“Walter lived with mental health complexities. While this is a difficult and painful time for all of us, we know he is now at peace. As we begin the difficult task of making funeral arrangements, we ask that you keep all of us in your prayers and respect our privacy as we grieve. We will share additional information when plans are finalized.”
Zach Lahn, the Republican candidate for governor, asked for a moment of silence for his opponent’s family at the start of a campaign event in Storm Lake this morning. This afternoon, Lahn wrote on X that “we join all Iowans in praying for Rob, Christine, and their whole family. Our hearts are with them and we lift them up today and in the days to come.”
Governor Kim Reynolds said: “I’m deeply saddened to hear of Walter Lauridsen’s passing. We met several times, and I always valued our conversations about our shared belief in second chances and helping people build better lives. Kevin and I are praying for Walt’s children and for Nix and Virginia as they grieve this heartbreaking loss. Our hearts are also with Aage, Christina and Rob, and the entire family.”
Both candidates for the U.S. Senate posted messages of sympathy on social media.
“My heart breaks for Rob, Christine, and the entire Lauridsen family. I am keeping all of you in my prayers as you grieve this tragic loss,” Josh Turek said.
Ashley Hinson said: “This is absolutely heartbreaking news. Please keep the Lauridsen and Sand families in your prayers as they grieve this unimaginable loss.”
Congressman Zach Nunn posted a message on X earlier today: “Kelly and I are heartbroken for Christina and Rob Sand and the entire Lauridsen family after this tragic loss. To lose Walter so suddenly, in a season that already asks so much of their whole family, is devastating. We’re praying for them, and for everyone who knew and loved Walter.”
Sarah Trone Garriott of West Des Moines, a state senator who is running for congress, wrote on social media: “Today, my heart is with the Lauridsen and Sand families, and all of those who loved and knew Walter. This news is devastating, we will be thinking of all of you and keeping you in our prayers.”
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig posted a message on X: “Horrible news. Jamie and I are keeping the Lauridsen and Sand families in our prayers.”
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said she and her husband Bob “are very sad to hear of the loss of State Auditor Rob Sand’s brother-in-law. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the Sand and Lauridsen families and with all of Walter’s loved ones.”
State Representative Lindsay James of Dubuque, who is running for congress, said: “Devastated by this news. My heart is with Walter and his friends, family, and loved ones. Please join me in keeping the Lauridsen and Sand families in our prayers.”
Republican Party of Iowa Chairman Jeff Kaufmann said on X he and his wife, Vicki “are praying for @RobSandIA and his family as they mourn this terrible loss.”
