The 41st President of the United States of America, George Herbert Walker Bush, has died at the age of 94 his family have confirmed.
The former President, Vice President, Texas Congressman, CIA director and UN Ambassador had been battling a form of Parkinson’s disease, although it is not known whether it was a contributory factor.
George Bush was the longest-living US President in the country’s history.
One of the defining moments of his presidency was his close relationship with the UK Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, with whom he worked closely, especially as the Cold War came to an end, and the Gulf War broke out.
George W Bush, the son of George HW Bush, and the 43rd President of the United States said in a statement; “Jeb, Neil, Marvin, Doro, and I are saddened to announce that after 94 remarkable years, our dear Dad has died. George H. W. Bush was a man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could as for. 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.”
Former President Barack Obama added; “America has lost a patriot and humble servant in George Herbert Walker Bush. While our hearts are heavy today, they are also filled with gratitude. Our thoughts are with the entire Bush family tonight – and all who were inspired by George and Barbara’s example.”
George Bush’s grandson, Jeb Bush Jnr said; “Nothing gave my Grampy more joy than service to others, especially supporting and caring for those who risk making the ultimate sacrifice everyday. His leadership taught us to be kinder and gentler, to love each other. We will miss him dearly.”
The current President, Donald Trump released a statement overnight saying; “Melania and I join with a grieving Nation to mourn the loss of former President George H.W. Bush, who passed away last night.
“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.”
British Foreign Secretary, Jeremy Hunt MP issued a statement on Saturday morning, in which he said; “I was deeply sorry to hear of the death of President George H W Bush.
“President Bush was a true ally of the UK, from his service with the US Navy during World War II, to his commitment to the transatlantic alliance while in high office during a time of dramatic change in the world.
“He will be remembered for his dedication to public service and his pledge to use American strength as a force for good. I send my sincerest condolences to his family, and to the American people.”
European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker added; “It was with great sadness that I learnt of the passing of George H. W. Bush. The world has lost a statesman and a leader who was an example to us all. I personally have lost a friend.
“I will never forget the role he played in making Europe a safer and more united place following the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Iron Curtain. President Bush’s calmness, leadership and close personal relationships with Helmut Kohl and Mikhail Gorbachev were decisive in restoring peace and freedom back to so many people across our Continent. We Europeans will forever remember this.
“Above all he was a family man with a deep devotion to his wife, children and grandchildren and the people around him.
“I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to the American people and the entire Bush family at this sad time.”