Robert Joseph Dole - more commonly known as just Bob Dole - has passed away at the age of 98.
The former US Senator and World War II veteran died on Sunday, November 5, in his sleep.
The sad news was confirmed by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, which wrote in a statement: "It is with heavy hearts we announce that Senator Robert Joseph Dole died early this morning in his sleep."
Per CNN, Dole announced back in February that he was being treated for advanced lung cancer, prompting a visit from President Joe Biden shortly after.
He served for 27 years as a US senator for Kansas from 1969 to 1996 - and in his final 11 years, he was the Republican Leader of the United States Senate.
Dole will perhaps best be remembered in the political sphere for his work on behalf of fellow military veterans, and for his third presidential run in 1996 against Bill Clinton.
Journalist Richard Ben Cramer one described Dole as always being ready with a joke, and this was proven months after his loss to Clinton, when Dole would receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his service in WWII and Congress
During the ceremony, Dole started his speech by saying: "I, Robert J. Dole, do solemnly swear... Sorry, wrong speech. But I had a dream that I would be here this week, receiving something from the president, but I thought it would be the front door key."
Referencing an injury to his right arm that he sustained as an Army officer in WWII, Dole wrote in his co-authored book The Doles: Unlimited Partners: "If unable to reach voters with my right hand, I could always reach out with my left."
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation was established in honor of former North Carolina Senator Elizabeth Dole, Bob's widow, and is dedicated to "empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s military caregivers; the spouses, parents, family members and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill or injured veterans."
As well as Elizabeth, Dole is survived by his daughter, Robin.
Our thoughts go out to Dole's family, friends, and supporters at this time.
