LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The passing of former President George H.W. Bush is affecting people in the Las Vegas valley.
Sig Rogich, a popular valley businessman and consultant, spent years as Bush's assistant and considered him family.
The pair worked closely in the 80s and early 90s, including Bush's time in the White House, but their working relationship was so much more than that.
"He was a splendid man, and I was just blessed to be a part of his extended family," Rogich said.
The pair remained friends after the White House and even exchanged jokes just days ago. As Rogich said as his longtime friend's health began to fade Bush kept his sense of humor.
"I sent him a joke the other day, we've been sharing jokes and communication for 30 years, and he has this phony rating committee that he heads up and in the course of it he read my joke and gave it a four out of 10. And I wrote back well you don't understand sophisticated humor," Rogich said.
The former Bush’s assistant also said it was an honor and privilege to serve at the president’s side.
