PHOENIX (AZFamily) — A Phoenix judge has died from complications of a heart attack that occurred while on vacation, the Maricopa County Courthouse announced Wednesday.

Justice of the Peace Frank J. Conti died suddenly in Banff, Canada, a resort town in the province of Alberta. He was 61 years old.

“We all knew we could count on Frank whenever we needed him. His leadership of his court was outstanding,” said Presiding Justice of the Peace Anna Huberman in a press release. “This is a terrible tragedy, not only for his family, but for his court family as well.”

A licensed and respected attorney in Arizona since 1990, Conti was first elected to North Phoenix’s Dreamy Draw Justice Precinct in 2008. He was re-elected three times and ran unopposed in the upcoming general election.

Judge Conti leaves behind two sons. Funeral arrangements are still pending.

Court officials say the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors will consider the process to replace Judge Conti in the coming weeks. In the meantime, a judge pro tempore will represent the court.

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