Dick Cheney Cause of Death: Former Vice President Dies at 84 Ahead of Funeral

Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney died on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the age of 84. His family confirmed that the cause of death was complications from pneumonia, along with underlying cardiac and vascular disease.

Cheney’s funeral is being held on Thursday, November 20, at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. The service begins at 11 a.m. local time and will be streamed live for the public. The ceremony brings together political leaders, dignitaries, and family members to honor the former vice president’s life and long political career.

Dick Cheney Cause of Death and Health History

According to the family statement released on November 4, Cheney passed away following years of health complications. Throughout his life, he endured multiple serious cardiac issues, having suffered five heart attacks between the ages of 37 and 69.

Cheney’s first heart attack occurred during a congressional campaign when he was just 37 years old. Two more followed while serving in Congress, with a fourth occurring shortly after the 2000 presidential election. His fifth and most severe heart attack came in 2010, after which he was fitted with a left ventricular assist device to help his weakened heart function.

He underwent a quadruple bypass surgery in 1988 and later received a heart transplant in March 2012. His longtime cardiologist, Dr. Jonathan Reiner, co-authored the book Heart: An American Medical Odyssey with Cheney, chronicling his decades-long battle with heart disease and his journey through advanced medical treatment.

Despite his declining health, Cheney continued to be active in political and national defense discussions, often offering commentary on American foreign policy and leadership.

Legacy and Public Reaction

Cheney served as vice president under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, playing a central role in shaping U.S. national security policy after the September 11 attacks. His support for the 2003 Iraq invasion and expanded executive powers made him one of the most influential yet controversial figures in modern American politics.

He was often portrayed as a shadowy architect of U.S. foreign policy, earning nicknames like “Darth Vader,” which he humorously embraced. Cheney’s influence extended far beyond his vice presidency — from his tenure as Secretary of Defense under George H. W. Bush to his leadership within the Republican Party.

Public reaction to his passing has been mixed, reflecting both admiration for his dedication to national security and criticism for his role in foreign conflicts. Tributes have poured in from former colleagues and world leaders, recognizing his decades of government service and complex political legacy.

Dick Cheney’s death marks the end of an era for American conservatism. His life was defined by political power, resilience against illness, and a steadfast belief in his principles — making him one of the most consequential vice presidents in U.S. history.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Dick Cheney’s cause of death?

He died from complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease, according to his family’s statement.

Q2: When did Dick Cheney die?

Dick Cheney passed away on November 3, 2025, at the age of 84.

Q3: When is Dick Cheney’s funeral?

The funeral is scheduled for Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Washington National Cathedral.

Q4: What health problems did Cheney face?

He suffered five heart attacks, underwent bypass surgery, and received a heart transplant in 2012.

Q5: What positions did Dick Cheney hold during his career?

He served as Vice President under George W. Bush, Secretary of Defense under George H. W. Bush, and White House Chief of Staff under Gerald Ford.