Former Bush Energy Secretary Sam Bodman dies

Former Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman, who served under former President George W. Bush, has died at the age of 79.

Bush issued a statement Friday mourning the death of Bodman, who served in several roles during his administration before leading the Energy Department in Bush’s second term, from 2005 to 2009.

“Sam had a brilliant mind, and we are fortunate that he put his intellect to work for our country as secretary of energy,” Bush said in a statement reported by The Associated Press.

Before serving as energy chief, Bodman served in the Commerce and Treasury departments. A trained chemical engineer, he also previously served as CEO of Cabot Corporation, a Boston-based chemical company.

{mosads}Energy Secretary Rick Perry praised Bodman in a statement Friday, noting the late secretary’s “impact” on the department.

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of former Secretary of Energy Sam Bodman. Sam was a real life success story with an impressive career in the private sector before turning his attention to public service, serving in senior appointments across the government,” the former Texas governor said.

“His legacy and impact will continue to be felt, long after the years he served in the Forrestal Building,” Perry added.

I am saddened to learn of the passing of former Secretary of Energy Sam Bodman. His legacy and impact will continue to be felt, long after the years he served in the Forrestal Building. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.https://t.co/MVJ61gAAtT pic.twitter.com/uhPcSeLOKq

— Rick Perry (@SecretaryPerry) September 7, 2018