CEDAR LAKE, Ind. (AP) – A former state senator who worked to protect consumers and allow adults to dictate their medical care if they become incapacitated is being remembered for her ability to bring people together.

Family members say Republican Sue Landske of Cedar Lake died Friday. She was 77.

Landske was a veteran of the National Guard Reserve and served in the state Senate for 30 years. She was diagnosed with lung cancer in November 2013 and did not seek re-election in 2014.

Indiana Republicans say she helped create a “Lemon Law” to protect those who purchase defective vehicles and pushed for free college tuition for Indiana Purple Heart recipients.

Gov. Mike Pence called Landske “a true public servant in every way” and praised her efforts to advance educational opportunities for women and veterans.