November 4, 2025
Statement by Fred Ryan, Chairman of the Board of The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute on the Death of Dick Cheney
Simi Valley, California – The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute mourns the loss of Richard B. “Dick” Cheney, the 46th Vice President of the United States.
A devoted public servant for more than five decades, Dick Cheney’s remarkable career included service as White House Chief of Staff to President Gerald Ford, six terms as Wyoming’s sole member of the U.S. House of Representatives, and Secretary of Defense under President George H. W. Bush—where he helped lead the coalition that liberated Kuwait in the Gulf War. He later served as Vice President to President George W. Bush, playing a central role in America’s response to the attacks of September 11, 2001.
As a Member of Congress during President Reagan’s administration, he was an ardent advocate for American strength and the cause of freedom at home and abroad. President Reagan once remarked to the people of Wyoming, “I value the strong, loyal support of your outstanding Congressman—Dick Cheney…We need his strong leadership back in the House in Washington.”
Upon President Reagan’s passing in 2004, then–Vice President Cheney delivered a heartfelt eulogy in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol. He also joined the Reagan family, national leaders, and Americans from across the nation at the funeral service held at the Washington National Cathedral. Congratulating him on his Vice-Presidency, Mrs. Reagan wrote to him: “There will be more challenges ahead for our nation, and I am glad you are in place to help lead us through them.” Dick Cheney’s many visits to the Reagan Library actively engaged the local community in conversation about American leadership and history.
Dick Cheney was a steadfast defender of the principles President Reagan championed: peace through strength, individual liberty, and the dignity of self-governance. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife of 61 years, Lynne Cheney, their daughters Elizabeth and Mary, and the entire Cheney family.
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Contact: Melissa Giller