Former Vice President Dick Cheney Dies at 84

Former United States Vice President Dick Cheney

By San Diego Monitor News Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney, who served from 2001 to 2009 under President George W. Bush, has died at the age of 84. His family announced that he passed away Monday evening due to complications from pneumonia and long-term heart disease. Cheney was surrounded by his wife, Lynne, and their daughters, former Congresswoman Liz Cheney and Mary.

In a statement, the Cheney family described him as “a great and good man” who “lived a life of courage, honor, and love of country.”

A Career in Public Service

Richard Bruce Cheney was born on January 30, 1941, in Lincoln, Nebraska, and raised in Casper, Wyoming. He began his public career as a congressional intern and later served as White House Chief of Staff under President Gerald Ford. Cheney was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Wyoming in 1978, serving six terms.

From 1989 to 1993, he held the position of Secretary of Defense under President George H. W. Bush, overseeing U.S. military operations during the Gulf War.

In 2000, Cheney was selected as George W. Bush’s running mate.

As Vice President, he played a central role in national security and foreign policy, particularly following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He supported the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq and helped shape the administration’s counterterrorism strategy.

Health and Later Years

Cheney faced significant health challenges throughout his life, including multiple heart attacks and a heart transplant in 2012. Despite these obstacles, he continued to make public appearances and contribute to policy discussions.

In his later years, Cheney remained engaged in political commentary and public service, occasionally offering perspectives on developments within the Republican Party and national security policy.

Reactions and Legacy

Public reaction to Cheney’s passing has been widespread across the political spectrum. Supporters and colleagues have emphasized his decades of government experience and his role in shaping defense policy. Others have noted the lasting debate over decisions made during his vice presidency, particularly regarding the Iraq War and national security measures implemented after 9/11.

Political analysts note that Cheney’s influence extended well beyond his time in office, helping define the structure of the modern vice presidency and the contours of post-9/11 foreign policy.

Impact in San Diego and the Military Community

Given San Diego’s strong military presence, local observers point to Cheney’s tenure as Secretary of Defense and Vice President as particularly influential. His policies contributed to defense spending and strategic operations that affected bases and personnel across Southern California.

Veterans’ groups and military historians in the region are expected to host discussions and reflections on Cheney’s contributions to U.S. defense policy and its long-term implications.

Final Arrangements

Funeral details and memorial services have not yet been publicly announced by the family. Dick Cheney is survived by his wife, Lynne, their two daughters, and several grandchildren.