Legislators from around the state and from both political parties paid tribute Friday to a former colleague, Eric Youngberg, 43, who was discovered dead in his Albuquerque home last week.

They told funny stories about the three-term Republican legislator, known for his humor.

Youngberg served in the state House of Representatives from 2003 to the end of 2008.

His mother, Janet Youngberg, told The Associated Press that her son died Thursday evening at his home. The cause of death was not immediately determined.

House Republican Leader Tom Taylor, R-Farmington, said Youngberg's mother discovered the death when checking on her son.

A member of the House Judiciary Committee, Youngberg perhaps is best remembered in the Roundhouse as the co-chairman, along with Majority Leader Kenny Martinez, D-Grants, of the bi-partisan panel that in 2005 looked into the possible impeachment of then-Treasurer Robert Vigil. (Vigil resigned shortly before the panel started considering specific charges.)

"Former State Representative Eric Youngberg was widely known for his great sense of humor, but he will be remembered most for his years of service to the people of New Mexico in the state Legislature," Gov. Bill Richardson said in a news release. Richardson ordered flags to be flown at half staff from Tuesday through sundown on Wednesday in honor of Youngberg.

State Republican Chairman Harvey Yates Jr. issued a statement Friday saying "Eric was a well-respected former legislator who fought hard in Santa Fe to better the lives of his constituents. Motivated by a conviction that every eligible vote should count, Eric served as a key member of the Republican Party's election-day efforts statewide. His even temperament and quick sense of humor masked a keen mind and strong sense of justice. He was a true servant of the people and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time."

During his time at the Capitol, Youngberg referred to his Capitol office as "The Bat Cave." He always kept it well-stocked with energy drinks.

On Friday, House members gave passionate, sometimes tearful, testimonies about Youngberg, recalling his humor and the friendships he made on both sides of the aisle.

Rep. Al Park, D-Albuquerque, recalled going to a paintball game with Youngberg and that neither of them knew what they were getting into or how intense the game is. After hiding for a long time, Park said, Youngberg finally decided to check if the coast was clear. He immediately was shot with paintballs three times, Park said.

Rep. Candy Spence-Ezzell, R-Roswell, told about the time Youngberg visited her ranch and tried to pet one of her bulls. Without saying exactly what happened, Spence-Ezzell said Youngberg learned quickly some bulls aren't interested in being petted.

Rep. Rhonda King, D-Stanley, remembered when Youngberg showed up at the annual House/Senate basketball game "a little unprepared." Specifically, he was wearing a business suit and dress shoes. However, King said Youngberg found a pair of scissors and turned his dress pants into shorts and played the game that way.

Rep. Joe Cervantes, D-Las Cruces, told fellow House members, "We could disagree on issues and argue passionately, but could still be dear friends."

House Speaker Ben Luján, D-Nambé, talked about the respect Youngberg had for the institution of the House. He said he saw Youngberg a couple of months ago. "He was jolly Youngberg," the Speaker said. "I was glad to see him."

Youngberg had a law degree but earned his living as a real estate developer and accountant. He was defeated for re-election in 2008 by Rep. Ben Rodefer, D-Albuquerque.

Youngberg is survived by his mother, sister Kristin Youngberg and brother Leif Craig Youngberg.

House Republican Whip Keith Gardner, R-Roswell, announced that Youngberg's funeral is scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday at First Presbyterian Church in Albuquerque.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Contact Steve Terrell at 986-3037 or sterrell@sfnewmexican.com. Read his political blog at roundhouseroundup.com.