Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher, known as "Joe the Plumber," passed away on Sunday at the age of 49 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. Wurzelbacher gained national attention during the 2008 presidential campaign when he confronted then-senator Barack Obama about his proposed tax increase for small businesses.

On October 12, 2008, while Obama was campaigning in Toledo, Ohio, Wurzelbacher interrupted a football catch with his son in his front yard to address the Democratic nominee. In a five-minute exchange captured by news cameras, Wurzelbacher expressed concerns about the potential impact of increased taxes on his plans to purchase a plumbing business that would generate an annual income of $250,000.

Wurzelbacher's interaction with Obama quickly made headlines, and he was subsequently dubbed "Joe the Plumber" by Republican nominee John McCain. His story resonated with McCain supporters and conservative commentators who saw Wurzelbacher as a symbol of the American middle-class dream and a critic of Obama's economic policies, which they believed were socialist or even communist in nature.

McCain's running mate, Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska, also joined forces with Wurzelbacher, appearing alongside him at campaign rallies. However, as the election drew closer, Wurzelbacher's credibility was called into question. It was revealed that he was not a licensed plumber and owed $1,200 in back taxes. Despite this, the impact of "Joe the Plumber" on the campaign was undeniable, as he was mentioned over two dozen times during the final presidential debate.

Following the election, Wurzelbacher continued his foray into politics and won the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic incumbent Marcy Kaptur in Ohio's 9th Congressional District in 2012. However, he was soundly defeated, only receiving 23% of the vote compared to Kaptur's 73%.

Despite his political setback, Wurzelbacher remained active in conservative circles, speaking at tea party rallies and conservative gatherings across the country. He also authored a book and worked with a veterans organization that provided outdoor programs for wounded soldiers. However, he eventually returned to his original profession as a plumber.

Wurzelbacher's son, Joey Wurzelbacher, described his father as a true patriot and emphasized his message of faith and the importance of turning to God. The family has not yet announced funeral arrangements. Wurzelbacher is survived by his wife, Katie, and their four children.