Policy wise, you can find good and bad things in his resume. But, he was always a classy guy, and the first president I was able to vote for
(The Hill) George Herbert Walker Bush, the 41st president of the United States and the head of one of the most prominent families in American political history, died Friday at the age of 94.
In a statement released through his son, former President George W. Bush, the family described their patriarch “as a man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could ask for.â€
No cause of death was given. Instead the statement simply announced that “the entire Bush family is deeply grateful for 41’s life and love, for the compassion of those who have cared and prayed for Dad, and for the condolences of our friends and fellow citizens.”
Bush’s wife, Barbara, died in April.
The Bushes had been married for 73 years at the time of her death. Back then, her husband released a statement calling her “the most beloved woman in the world.â€
Bush served for eight years as vice president to Ronald Reagan before winning the White House himself, beating Democratic opponent Michael Dukakis by a convincing margin in 1988.
Obviously, lots more to that story. He was instrumental in helping Ronald Reagan defeat the Soviet Union, and was there when the USSR collapsed.
Who knew jumping out of planes was safer than getting out of bed? Thanks to all for your kind get-well messages. pic.twitter.com/T9FmhCqyme
— George Bush (@GeorgeHWBush) July 30, 2015
Trump had lots of nice words for the elder Bush
“Melania and I join with a grieving Nation to mourn the loss of former President George H.W. Bush, who passed away last night,” Trump said in a statement released by the White House.
“Through his essential authenticity, disarming wit, and unwavering commitment to faith, family, and country, President Bush inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service—to be, in his words, ‘a thousand points of light’ illuminating the greatness, hope, and opportunity of America to the world,” Trump continued. (snip)
“Along with his full life of service to country, we will remember President Bush for his devotion to family—especially the love of his life, Barbara. His example lives on, and will continue to stir future Americans to pursue a greater cause. Our hearts ache with his loss, and we, with the American people, send our prayers to the entire Bush family, as we honor the life and legacy of 41.”
There’s more to it. And from the Obama’s
The Obamas praised Bush, calling him “a patriot and humble servant” with “a legacy of service that may never be matched, even though he’d want all of us to try.”
“While our hearts are heavy today, they are also filled with gratitude. Not merely for the years he spent as our forty-first President, but for the more than 70 years he spent in devoted service to the country he loved – from a decorated Naval aviator who nearly gave his life in World War II, to Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces, with plenty of posts along the way. Ambassador to the United Nations. Director of Central Intelligence. U.S. Envoy to China. Vice President of the United States,” the Obamas said.
Bill Clinton also offered kind words, this from a man who were political rivals turned strong friends noting something a lot of the media may miss
He never stopped serving. I saw it up close, working with him on tsunami relief in Asia and here at home after Hurricane Katrina. His remarkable leadership and great heart were always on full display.
After Bush left the White House, he continued to serve, helping out with so many domestic and international projects.
Rest in peace, sir.
