Legislators remembered 27 former colleagues who have died in the last two years with prayers, songs and a bagpipe rendition of "Amazing Grace."

"Today, we're giving a few minutes to rightfully honor those who gave several years of their lives to the state of North Dakota," said Rep. Rick Berg, R-Fargo, the House majority leader.

Members of the House and Senate hold separate memorial services every session to honor former legislators who died after the previous session ended.

More than 100 family members of the former legislators attended Monday's service, sitting on the House and Senate floors alongside lawmakers who are currently serving.

Rep. Kathy Hawken, R-Fargo, read a poem she had composed for the occasion. Sen. Carolyn Nelson, D-Fargo, played piano as a quartet of state senators - Dave Oehlke, R-Devils Lake; Robert Erbele, R-Lehr; Curtis Olafson, R-Edinburg; and Jerry Klein, R-Fessenden - sang hymns, followed by soloist Sen. John Warner, D-Ryder.

Former state Sen. Tom Trenbeath, R-Cavalier, who is now chief deputy attorney general, played "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes.

Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem, who served 24 years in the state House and Senate, said former lawmakers are remembered most for their integrity and willingness to give their time for public service.

"No priest or orator ever mentions about a former senator, 'You know, the public liked his stance on funding for elementary and secondary education,'" Stenehjem said.

"Instead, we always hear words that speak of the character of our departed colleagues - 'His word was his bond. She was true to her principles.'"