Why are the flags flying at half-staff in Wisconsin on Thursday?

You might notice flags around Wisconsin flying at half-staff Thursday.

The gesture, ordered by Gov. Tony Evers , is in memory of a former state representative who died recently. Here's what to know about the flags at half-staff and the Wisconsinite they're honoring:

Why are flags at half-staff in Wisconsin on Thursday?

Flags will be at half-staff Thursday to honor James Soletski, a two-term representative of Wisconsin's 88th Assembly District.

Soletski was raised in New Franken and attended high school in Green Bay, before graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, according to a news release from the governor's office.

After working in the energy industry for more 20 years, Soletski, a Democrat, ran for and was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly twice from 2007 to 2011. During his time in the state legislature, he served as chairperson of the Energy and Utilities Committee, as well as vice-chairperson of the Elections and Campaign Reform Committee and the Consumer Protection Committee.

Soletski died on Aug. 20 at the age of 75. A memorial will be held for him in Green Bay on Aug. 29, the same day flags will be lowered.

“A lifelong Wisconsinite, Representative Soletski was dedicated to serving others and the greater Green Bay area,” Evers said in the news release. “Kathy and I send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and neighbors during this time of mourning.”

How long will flags be at half-staff?

Flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset Thursday.

Where will flags be at half-staff?

According to Evers' order, the American flag and the Wisconsin state flag will fly at half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations belonging to the state of Wisconsin.

Why do flags fly at half-staff?

U.S. flags typically fly at half-staff in the wake of national tragedies or after deaths of government officials, military members or first responders. They also fly at half-staff on Memorial Day and other national days of remembrance.

"The United States flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the nation or a state is in mourning," USA.gov says . "The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff."

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are the flags flying at half-staff in Wisconsin on Thursday?