Former U.S. Senator Richard Lugar Dies Unexpectedly

Lugar helped to destroy thousands of former Soviet warheads during his 36 years in the U.S. Senate.

Former Indiana U.S. Senator Richard Lugar. Photo via Office of Senator Richard Lugar.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - The tributes are pouring in for former Indiana U.S. Senator Richard Lugar.

He died unexpectedly Sunday at age 87.

According to The Lugar Center, his wife, Char, and four sons - Mark, Bob, John, and David - and their families were with him throughout his short illness in the hospital. 

Lugar spent 36 years in the U.S. Senate and became known as a foreign policy expert. He is being remembered for his soft-spoken ways and his ability to work with politicians from both parties.

“As a boss, a mentor, and a person, Richard Lugar was the gold standard,” said current Indiana U.S. Senator Todd Young. “At a time when nuclear proliferation was civilization’s greatest threat, Senator Lugar helped save the world. He leaves a legacy as an exemplar of wisdom, civility, and bipartisanship. Always staying true to his temperament, he was a quiet, dignified statesman.  He thought before he spoke. He emphasized substance over personality.  In short, he set the bar for public leaders — and for leaders more generally. I’m not sure we will ever see another Richard Lugar, but I pray that we do. May God watch over him and his family.”

Lugar received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 in recognition of his work to halt the proliferation of nuclear weapons. He founded a program which destroyed thousands of former Soviet nuclear and chemical weapons after the Cold War ended.

Prior to being elected to the U.S. Senate in 1976, Lugar was a two-term mayor of Indianapolis.

Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb called Lugar one of the best ever.

“As an always faithful servant to the highest ideals in every walk of his incredible life, Richard Lugar ran the family farm, charted a new innovative course for Indiana’s capital city, and devoted a record six terms as a U.S. Senator to making the world a more prosperous and peaceful place,” said Holcomb.

“He was an officer and gentleman, father and faith leader, a Mayor and Senator, a diplomat and legendary role model to millions. Janet and I are keeping Mrs. Lugar and their wonderful family in our prayers and ask all those touched by his service to join us.”

Holcomb is directing flags across the state be flown at half-staff in honor of Lugar from now until sunset on the day of his funeral, which has not yet been announced.  Hoosier businesses and residents are asked to lower their flags to half-staff as well.

A celebration of life ceremony will be held at the City-County Building in Indianapolis on Monday, April 29.