"Trudi and I are saddened by the death of Bill Gates Sr., a monumental civic figure in our region and the world at large. He was of course an enormous influence on his son, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates Jr., and was closely involved in establishing what became the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
"Bill Sr. was a person who cared about the plight of many, and he had the resources and never-ending civic commitment to do something about it. He made the choice to use his wealth and influence to advocate for and improve equity in our communities. We particularly appreciate his focus on educating others on early childhood brain development and the need for early childhood education. He created opportunities for countless individuals.
"Trudi and I wish to extend our condolences to Bill Sr.'s wife Mimi and their family. Bill Sr.'s death is a great loss to Washingtonians, but Trudi and I have no doubt that what his philanthropy set in motion will only continue to grow, faithful as always to his code of putting others first and ensuring a focus on the most vulnerable."