Local leaders react to passing of President George H.W. Bush

President George H.W. Bush passed away in Texas on Friday night at the age of 94.

He served his country for nearly 70 years, starting at 18 years old in the military and finishing as the 41st president of the United States.

Leaders across the country and the state have been sending their condolences to the Bush family and remembering the kind of man and leader Bush was.

“George H.W. Bush had the best qualities of his generation; stand up straight and take responsibility, share the credit and take the blame. He loved his country and served it with capacity, modesty and dignity. His mastery of foreign policy was most evident as the Soviet Union collapsed and Eastern Europe moved toward democracy. His example and service made a world changing difference,” Sen. Roy Blunt said in a statement.

Sen. Claire McCaskill tweeted that Bush was a class act. She said he loved this country and spent a lifetime in its service.

State Attorney General Josh Hawley, and soon to be U.S. senator, tweeted “it was sure sad this morning to learn of the death of former President H.W. Bush. I had a chance to meet him in person for the first and only time one year ago this month. What an extraordinary husband, father, leader and man.”

“Like Americans all across our nation, I was saddened to learn of the news of the passing of President George H.W. Bush. ‘Bush 41,’ as he was affectionately known, served his country in World War II as a combat pilot, then extended his service to America as an envoy to China, U.S. Representative, CIA Director, Vice President, and finally President of the United States. America has lost a true statesman. My thoughts and prayers are with the Bush family at this time,” U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler said in a statement.