HOUSTON – Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made this statement today after the passing of former U.S. President George H. W. Bush:

“Jan and I express our deepest condolences to the Bush family on the passing of our former President, George H. W. Bush. President Bush was a great Texan whose life and work exemplify public service and love for his country. His lasting legacy will inspire Americans for generations to come.”

George H. W. Bush began his public service as a U.S. Navy pilot in World War II. He began his political career when he was elected Chair of the Harris County Republican Party. He was elected to the U.S. House and served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and Director of the CIA. He served as Vice President from 1981 to 1989 and was elected President in 1989. He and his late wife Barbara were the parents of two governors and a U.S. president. He was the grandfather of Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush.