Richard B. Cheney, the 46th vice president of the United States and one of the most influential figures in modern American politics, died Monday at age 84. His family said he died the previous night, November 3, of complications from pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease.
“His beloved wife of 61 years, Lynne, his daughters, Liz and Mary, and other family members were with him as he passed,” the Cheney family said in a statement. “Dick Cheney was a great and good man who taught his children and grandchildren to love our country, and to live lives of courage, honour, love, kindness, and fly fishing.”
A Nebraska native who grew up in Wyoming, Mr. Cheney rose from congressional aide to become one of the most powerful vice presidents in U.S. history. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he served as White House chief of staff under President Gerald Ford, Wyoming’s congressman for six terms, and secretary of defense under President George H.W. Bush, overseeing the U.S.-led coalition victory in the Gulf War.
He returned to national prominence as vice president to George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, where he was a driving force behind the administration’s response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Supporters praised his steady leadership and experience in crisis, while critics accused him of expanding executive power and endorsing harsh interrogation tactics.
“Dick Cheney served our nation for decades,” the family said, “including as White House Chief of Staff, Wyoming’s Congressman, Secretary of Defense, and Vice President of the United States. We are grateful beyond measure for all Dick Cheney did for our country.”
Known for his reserved demeanor and sharp intellect, Mr. Cheney remained active in public life after leaving office, occasionally weighing in on foreign policy and Republican politics.
He is survived by his wife, Lynne; his daughters, Liz and Mary; and several grandchildren.
“We are blessed beyond measure to have loved and been loved by this noble giant of a man,” his family said.
