Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman yesterday announced the death ofState Insurance Director Tim Wagner. He was 65.

Mr. Wagner died Tuesday after suffering a stroke six daysearlier.

Deputy Director Ann Frohman has been appointed to serve asacting director of the department, according to theannouncement.

Mr. Wagner had served in his post since 1999 when he wasappointed by Gov. Mike Johanns. At the time he was named to the jobhe was a vice president with Central States Indemnity Co. of Omaha,Neb.

“I want to express my deepest condolences to Tim's family andall those who've worked with him, both at the department ofinsurance and throughout the private sector,” Gov. Heinemansaid.

“Tim was a good friend and we will certainly miss him. On behalfof Sally and my family, I send our most heartfelt sympathies to hisfamily and friends.

The governor said Mr. Wagner was “a great asset to the state ofNebraska. He was very professional when it came to the role heplayed in regulating the insurance industry, yet was verysuccessful in helping recruit new business investment to ourstate.”

“He worked tirelessly to position our state as an excellentplace for insurance companies to do business, and his manycontributions will not be forgotten,” he added.

Funeral arrangements were not immediately announced.