Former Illinois Gov. Dan Walker is being remembered as a passionate and intelligent man with a confrontational side.

His son, Dan Walker Jr., says his father died at his California home Wednesday morning. He says his father accomplished many things, including being a father to seven children.

Former Illinois Gaming Board chairman Aaron Jaffe was a House lawmaker when Walker took office in the 1970s. Jaffe says Walker was very intelligent and could have gone further in politics than his single term in office if he wasn't so confrontational.

Former Gov. Pat Quinn has often cited Walker as a mentor. In a statement, he noted Walker's military service.

Gov. Bruce Rauner says in a statement he's saddened to hear of the news and offers prayers to Walker's family.