Former President of the United States, George H.W. Bush has passed on Friday November 30, at age 94 in Houston, according to his spokesperson Jim McGrath. “George Herbert Walker Bush, World War II naval aviator, Texas oil pioneer, and 41st President of the United States of America, died on November 30, 2018," McGrath's statement said.
“He was 94 and is survived by his five children and their spouses, 17 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and two siblings.
“He was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Barbara; his second child Pauline “Robin” Bush; and his brothers Prescott and William or “Bucky” Bush.”
US President Donald Trump on Saturday paid tribute to late former leader George H.W. Bush, admiring his lifetime of unalloyed service to the nation and “unflappable leadership” during the waning days of the Cold War.
Trump while attending the G20 summit in Buenos Aires said “Melania and I join with a grieving nation to mourn the loss of former president George H.W. Bush.”
“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.”
Born into privilege and a tradition of service, former president Bush was the son of a senator, celebrated World War II combat pilot, student athlete, Texas oilman, national party chairman, Republican congressman, pioneering diplomat and spy chief. After his own 1980 presidential campaign came up short, he served in office for two terms as Ronald Reagan’s vice president before attaining the pinnacle of political power by winning the 1988 presidential election, soundly defeating Democrat Michael Dukakis.
Bush’s passing comes barely months after the death of his wife and revered first lady Barbara Bush, in April. She was his “most beloved woman in the world”, to whom he was married for 73 years.
He is the first sitting vice president to be elected to the presidency since 1836, Bush was also only the second person in US history to witness his own son follow in his presidential footsteps when George W. Bush was elected in 2000.
As president, George H.W. Bush laid a solid foundation for his successors to build on. Whether his people possess the fortitude and discipline to eventually do so remains to be seen.
He is survived by his five children and 17 grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course, a family spokesman revealed.
