Seattle (November 27, 2019) – Mayor Jenny A. Durkan issued the following statement on William D. Ruckelshaus, who passed away today at age 87:
“I am so saddened by Bill’s loss, but so thankful to have known him and for all he has done for our country and region. My thoughts and prayers are with his remarkable family in this difficult time. Throughout Bill’s entire career, he has conducted himself with integrity and intelligence, and he always sought to do what was right, even when it required immense sacrifice.
“From his work to define and structure the Environmental Protection Agency, to his contributions as the Acting Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to his historic decision to resign his position in the Department of Justice rather than carry out President Nixon’s order to fire the special prosecutor investigating Nixon, his mark on what is best of America will endure.
“The City of Seattle commends Bill for his unrelenting protection of the environment, dedication to public service, and support for the wellbeing and growth of our communities. He will be deeply missed.”