Jul 28, 2003/ FW/ --- Legendary entertainer and comedian Bob Hope died last night, Sunday, July 27, 2003 at 9:28 pm of pneumonia at his home in Toluca Lake, California, according to the statement issued by his long time publicist Ward Grant.

Bob Hope, who is beloved by millions and master of one-liners have entertained the whole world, including the U.S. Armed Forces. "Bob Hope is USO's tireless morale-booster for service men and women from World War II to the Gulf War," as stated by Edward A. Powell, President and CEO of the USO.

(Photo above is the book cover of The Spirit of Bob Hope: One Hundred Years - One Million Laughs by Richard Gruden.)

President George W. Bush echoed Mr. Powell's statement. "Today America lost a great citizen. We mourn the passing of Bob Hope. Bob Hope made us laugh, and he lifted our spirits. Bob Hope served our nation when he went to battlefields to entertain thousands of troops from different generations. We extend our prayers to his family. And we mourn the loss of a good man. May God bless his soul," said President Bush on an official statement from the White House.

Bob Hope passed away almost 2 months to the day after celebrating his 100th birthday. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Dolores, sons Anthony and Kelly, daughters Linda Hope and Nora Somers and four grandchildren --Andrew Lande, Zachary Hope, Miranda Hope-Smith and Alicia McCullagh. His whole family was at his bedside.

Bob's wife Dolores and the Hope family ask that "while we mourn the passing of such a wonderful and remarkable man that his friends and fans celebrate his life. A life that Bob loved and lived to the fullest."

Burial will be private for immediate family members only. The family asks that they be allowed time to say their good-byes quietly and in private. Permanent interment site will be announced at a later date. Future memorial services are being planned.

In lieu of flowers please consider masses or donations to The Bob and Dolores Hope Charitable Foundation, Toluca Lake, California 91602.