Dick Cheney, the 46th Vice President of the United States, passed away on November 3, 2025, at the age of 84. His forty-year career in public policy and politics began with the Nixon administration in 1969, where he held positions at the Office of Economic Opportunity, White House staff and Cost of Living Council. Cheney later became the youngest White House Chief of Staff, served as a Congressman, Secretary of Defense, and then Vice President of the United States (2001-2009).
Over the years, Vice President Cheney made numerous appearances at the Nixon Library. These visits included book talks on his memoirs, supporting his wife Lynne’s book on James Madison, and appearing alongside his daughter Liz to discuss books they coauthored and engage audiences in public policy dialogue.
When describing his experience working for President Nixon at a talk on his book Heart in 2013, Cheney reflected, “It started me in my career, especially in the executive branch, and those were experiences that stood me in good stead throughout my life.”
Tributes to Vice President Cheney
Not only has the Nation lost a great patriot in Dick Cheney’s passing, but the Nixon Foundation has lost a great friend. The former Vice President often referred to the fact that his life in public service began in the Nixon Administration.
— Dr. James Cavanaugh, Staff assistant to President Nixon for Health Affairs and then Deputy Director of the President’s Domestic Council
I had the great honor and privilege of working with Dick Cheney in the Ford White House, and I considered him to be my mentor. Dick was both an important and impactful boss to me, and I am grateful for all that I learned from him, especially about integrity and love of country.
I admired his dedication to family and offer my condolences to Lynn, Liz, Mary, and their families during this difficult time.
— Red Cavaney, White House Advance Office, Nixon administration
The world has lost an American icon. I had the honor of working alongside Vice President Dick Cheney through four Presidential administrations. He was a true patriot who loved this country almost as deeply as he loved his wife, Lynne, and their beautiful daughters. Dick was a devoted family man with a quiet sense of humor that often caught you by surprise.
Anne and I were blessed to call him a friend. His wisdom, integrity, and steadfast service to our nation will never be forgotten.
God speed my friend – until we meet again.
— Ron Walker, Special Assistant to President Richard M. Nixon
Past President and Chairman, Richard Nixon Foundation
It was a great honor and privilege to serve with Dick Cheney in the Nixon an Ford White Houses, as General Counsel of the Defense Department when he was Secretary, and as personal attorney for some 45 years. He was an extraordinary leader, patriot, public servant and friend, He loved this country without reservation and defender her with all his might.
— Terrence O’Donnell, White House Advance Office, Nixon administration
