Former President George H.W. Bush, who died Friday at age 94, was a dedicated sports fan who took a keen interest in the teams in the Houston area, where the Connecticut transplant resided for decades. The Astros drew much of that interest, not a great surprise given that Bush played baseball while attending Yale.
As Americans were processing the news of his death, Houston's teams and schools (and even Texas' governor) were hailing the nation's 41st chief executive/first fan:
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I was honored to know President George H.W. Bush. His love for our country and all things American made a lasting impression on me. He treated people with respect and always put family first. These are life lessons we should all emulate.
— Reid Ryan (@robertreidryan) December 1, 2018
Statement from @TilmanJFertitta and family on the passing of former President George H.W. Bush. pic.twitter.com/sfi5V6JIxQ
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 1, 2018
President Bush gave us a memory we will cherish forever... an amazing man who will be missed. #RIP41 pic.twitter.com/U1I0XxKVHA
— Texas A&M Baseball (@AggieBaseball) December 1, 2018
We were blessed to have President Bush as a friend of the program. He will always have a special place in our hearts.#RIP41 pic.twitter.com/7wGburlS1W
— Texas A&M Soccer (@AggieSoccer) December 1, 2018
One thing President George H. W. Bush loved was Texas A&M football. This was at a Texas—Texas A&M game in college station. He will always be cherished for his love of Texas traditions. pic.twitter.com/HoXyEpT5hC
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) December 1, 2018
We are sorry to hear about the passing of President George H.W. Bush. We fondly remember his visit with our USA Women's National Team during the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. #RIP41 pic.twitter.com/NQgmdMB1DX
— USA Water Polo (@USAWP) December 1, 2018