Peter J. Spaulding, 80, of Hopkinton, an executive councilor for 24 years, died Feb. 12, 2024, from pancreatic cancer.

He was elected in 1970 as a Merrimack County commissioner, then went on to run for Executive Council, where he served for over two decades. After serving for 24 years, he ran and won a seat on the Merrimack County Commission again, serving until 2022.

He worked on multiple presidential campaigns and considered U.S. Sen. John McCain of Arizona a close friend. He served as New Hampshire campaign co-chairman during McCain’s runs in 2000 and 2008.

Spaulding represented New Hampshire at multiple National Republican Conventions. He was awarded the Edna McKenna Award in 2021, given by the N.H. Association of Counties to a person who exemplifies former Merrimack County Commissioner Edna McKenna’s qualities committed to community and dedication to public service.

According to his obituary, he was born in New London and graduated from UNH with a bachelor’s degree in political science.

He loved spending time outside and was an avid fisherman and gardener. He enjoyed his time on the lake in Deering and winters in Cape Coral, Fla. He was a member of St. Peters Lodge F&AM 31 in Bradford.

He was director of business relations for the N.H. Department of Employment Security from 2007 to 2010 and was vice president for government relations at Providian National Bank from 1994 to 2006.

Family members include his wife Elizabeth, sons Joshua and his wife Corrie, Benjamin, and daughter Christine.

His funeral arrangements are being coordinated by Waters Funeral Home, 50 S. Main St., Concord. Visiting hours are scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 20, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.