TONY SNOW DEAD AT 53

Former White House Press Secretary Tony Snow died early today at Georgetown University Hospital after a long battle with Cancer.

Snow, once said; “I’m the luckiest guy in the world” –

President George Bush and Mrs. Bush expressed saddness at the death of Tony Snow today.

Laura and I are deeply saddened by the death of our dear friend, Tony Snow. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jill, and their children, Kendall, Robbie, and Kristi. The Snow family has lost a beloved husband and father. And America has lost a devoted public servant and a man of character.

Tony was one of our Nation's finest writers and commentators. He earned a loyal following with incisive radio and television broadcasts. He was a gifted speechwriter who served in my father's Administration. And I was thrilled when he agreed to return to the White House to serve as my Press Secretary. It was a joy to watch Tony at the podium each day. He brought wit, grace, and a great love of country to his work. His colleagues will cherish memories of his energetic personality and relentless good humor.

All of us here at the White House will miss Tony, as will the millions of Americans he inspired with his brave struggle against cancer. One of the things that sustained Tony Snow was his faith - and Laura and I join people across our country in praying that this good man has now found comfort in the arms of his Creator.

Snow served at White House Press Secretary for only 17 months – he left his post after his second battle with Cancer. In 2005 Snow had his colon removed and began 6 months of chemotherapy. Just two years later he had a cancerous growth removed from his abdominal area and spent over a month recuperating before returning to work.

Snow was born – Robert Anthony Snow – in Berea Kentucky on June 1, 1955. Survivors include his wife, Jill Ellen Walker and three children – Kendall, Robbie and Kristi.