The Associated Press

GALLIPOLIS, Ohio - Former U.S. Rep. Frank Cremeans, known for narrowly defeating incumbent Democratic Rep. Ted Strickland in southern Ohio's 6th District in 1994, died Thursday night following a short illness, his daughter said Friday. He was 59.

Mr. Cremeans, a Republican, represented the district for one term, losing the seat to Mr. Strickland in 1996. He ran unsuccessfully for the Ohio House in 1992.

"I am glad that Frank had an opportunity in his life to serve in Congress," Mr. Strickland said Friday. "I know that meant a great deal to him."

Mr. Cremeans died at his home of complications of a respiratory ailment, said his daughter, Cari Duval.