George H.W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States of America, passed away peacefully in his home November 30. The news about his passing was announced by his office. His health had been declining in recent years, as Bush was confined to wheelchairs and motorized scooters due to his Parkinson’s disease. Bush had also been in and out of the hospital several times over those years. Even with the disease affecting his life and lifestyle greatly, Bush remained strong and resilient fighting the disease – just as he did during his presidency.

Bush represented the Republican party, but Americans regardless of their political affiliation – and even others from around the world – regard him as a respectful, strong man who led with determination and continued to support charitable causes even after his presidency. He was well-prepared for his role as president, as he had served in the U.S. Navy and as the vice-president to Ronald Reagan. He and Reagan made a great team, and when he decided to run for president himself in 1988, he was able to gain the support of many. Bush was president during the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the Soviet Union, and his skill with building positive relationships with international leaders came in handy as he helped bring the United States – and the world – peace. Republicans and non-Republicans alike regarded Bush as a positive role model with admirable qualities such as honor, decency, and endless respect.

Many paid tribute to Bush upon his death. A service was held in a rotunda of the Capitol the same Monday he died to honor his passing; attendants included current president Donald Trump and his First Lady Melania, House Speaker Paul Ryan, vice president Mike Pence, and of course his son George W. Bush. The attendants delivered touching eulogies honoring what made Bush successful as a president.

This hero who helped end the Cold War was the oldest living president prior to his death at 94. Now, Jimmy Carter, who is the same age, holds this distinction.