Tony Snow

Tony Snow

On July 12, 2008 at approximately 0200 hours Tony Snow rose above his battle with colon cancer and died at Georgetown University Hospital in DC.

Tony Snow replaced Scott McClellan as press secretary for President George Bush in May 2006. Unlike McClellan, Tony Snow brought pizzazz, intelligent wit, and above all integrity to the podium.

In a November 11, 2005, column no longer available at Townhall.com, but widely reported on CNN, Snow wrote that Bush's "wavering conservatism has become an active concern among Republicans, who wish he would stop cowering under the bed and start fighting back against the likes of Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi and Joe Wilson." "The newly passive George Bush has become something of an embarrassment," Snow's column said.

"I asked him about those comments," the president joked at the time of Snow's appointment. "And he said, 'You should have heard what I said about the other guy."

Tony Snow at the age of 17 lost his mother to colon cancer when she was 38-years old. Tony's battle with colon cancer began in 2005, after years of suffering from ulcerative colitis. His treatment included the surgical removal of his entire colon and after six months of chemotherapy, the disease was declared in remission. In 2007, while serving as White House Press Secretary, Mr. Snow suffered a recurrence of colon cancer that had metastasized to his liver. Today, Tony Snow succumbed to the same disease that claimed his mother's life.

Like every heroic soldier, he fought his battle with honor and provided encouragement and inspiration to those fortunate enough to hear his message and see him in action.

He excelled at all his professional endeavors, which spanned nearly 30-years. He was a musician, mastering six instruments and played in a band called Beats Workin'. This was in addition to his storied career in journalism and public service. Tony Snow, will also be fondly remembered in a less glorious but more important role as a committed family man and great American. He was devoted to his wife and three children.

Mr. Snow left journalism in 1991 to join the first Bush administration for President George H.W. Bush as director of speechwriting and deputy assistant to the president for media affairs. He then rejoined the news media to write nationally syndicated columns for The Detroit News and USA Today.

"Not everybody will survive cancer, but on the other hand, you have got to realize you've got the gift of life, so make the most of it. That is my view, and I'm going to make the most of my time with you."- Tony Snow, May 2007

"Attitude is real important. Why sit around and bemoan your fate? Go ahead and get in there and while you're at it enjoy every moment you're alive."- Tony Snow, September 12, 2007

Robert Anthony Snow was born June 1, 1955, in Berea, Ky., and spent his childhood in the Cincinnati area. Survivors include his wife, Jill Ellen Walker, whom he married in 1987, and three children.