Reaction to Bob Lanier's passing

HOUSTON – Former Houston Mayor Bob Lanier died of natural causes at his River Oaks home in Houston on Saturday afternoon. He was 89.

Below is reaction from those who knew and worked with Lanier:

His wife, Elyse Lanier, released this statement:

"Today, Bob Lanier, my husband and best friend for the last 30 years, passed away peacefully at our home at 4:35 pm this afternoon. Bob's life, like that of many in his generation, was defined by his love for family, friends and country. Bob considered his service for six years (1992-1998) as Mayor of Houston his greatest honor.

The pleasure of working with thousands of diverse Houstonians to make our City better along with his service as Chairman of Metro (1988-1989), Chairman of the Texas Department of Transportation (1983-1987) and as a young Naval Officer in World War II always brought a smile to his face and a twinkle to his eyes these last few years.

To his many colleagues and employees in public service, Bob wanted me to pass on a final goodbye and a hearty "Thank you for making a guy like me look good!"

A memorial service will be announced soon and we appreciate your prayers and respect for our privacy."

Former President George H.W. Bush released the following statement:

"Barbara and I were saddened to learn that Bob Lanier had passed. A success in the world of business, he served so ably as our Mayor, and his leadership surely helped to lay the foundation for much of the success Houston enjoys today. We send our heartfelt family condolences to the entire Lanier family."

Mayor Annise Parker's statement:

"I am saddened to hear of the passing of Mayor Bob Lanier.  He was a strong, popular leader who left a lasting mark on this city.  Never one to shy away from a tough battle, he used his strength and popularity to push through Affirmative Action protections, rebuild the City's wastewater system, improve neighborhoods and add hundreds of officers to the police force.  Although he became very successful in life, he never forgot his humble beginnings in Baytown.  He will be greatly missed.  My thoughts and prayers are with Elyse and the entire Lanier family."

Houston Police Department chief Charles McClelland released a statement:

"Mayor Bob Lanier was a well respected figure in Houston whose vision changed the City for the better.  He will be long remembered for his extraordinary leadership that left a lasting mark on the future of Houston.  My thoughts are with his family during their time of loss."

Statement from State Rep. Sylvester Turner:

"My prayers are with Mayor Lanier's family and friends.  The City of Houston is indebted to him for his service."

Senator Sylvia Garcia released this statement:

"I am saddened to learn that today we lost former Mayor Bob Lanier; one of the great Houstonians of our time. As a Board Member of the former Texas Highway Commission, Chairman of Houston METRO, and Mayor of Houston, few have left a more substantial and lasting impact on our great city than Mayor Lanier.
Mayor Lanier had a passion for public service, and he worked relentlessly to improve the lives of each and every Houstonian.  I am proud to say that I worked in Mayor Lanier's administration, an experience which undoubtedly inspired me to follow his example and make a difference through elected office.
I am a better person for having known Mayor Lanier, and Houston is a better city because of his dedicated service."

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