Former Oklahoma State Rep. Tim Pope Collapses, Dies

A friend and colleague of former state Rep. Tim Pope, who left the Legislature to make an unsuccessful run for state labor commissioner in 2002, says Pope has died at the age of 52.

Sunday, February 14th 2010, 9:20 pm

By: News On 6

Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY -- A friend and colleague of former state Rep. Tim Pope, who left the Legislature to make an unsuccessful run for state labor commissioner in 2002, says Pope has died at the age of 52.

Randy Terrill, a current member of the House, said Pope collapsed and died of an apparent heart attack Sunday in the backyard of his home in suburban Oklahoma City. Terrill said Pope had gone out to feed a small collection of farm animals, and his wife, LaDonna, found his body later.

Terrill, like Pope a Republican, said Pope served 14 years in the Legislature before his run for labor commissioner.

In 2009, Pope pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of aiding and abetting a political contribution in excess of the legal $5,000 limit. His case stemmed from a state investigation of allegations that former Oklahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart received illegal campaign contributions.

Funeral arrangements are pending.