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Koch Industries
David Koch
# USA
David Koch, the billionaire and major Republican donor, has died aged 79
He was the 11th-richest person in the world.
BILLIONAIRE DAVID KOCH, a major donor to the Republican party, has died at the age of 79.
Koch Industries, the Kansas-based energy and chemical company which he co-owned with his brother Charles, reported his death today.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my brother David,” Charles said in a statement, according to US television network NBC.
“Anyone who worked with David surely experienced his giant personality and passion for life.”
In a tribute to him, Koch Industries said he contributed more than $1.3 billion to cancer research, medical centres and arts and cultural centres during his life.
According to Forbes, he was the 11th richest person in the world – tied with his brother- at the time of his death.
He previously survived a plane crash and was given five years to live when he was diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer 27 years ago.
The two brothers had a significant influence on the conservative movement in the US, and David ran for vice-president as a Libertarian candidate in 1980.
They founded Americans for Prosperity, a charity which has supported conservative presidential candidates who adhere to the ideals of a free-market and small government.
However, the group has frequently clashed with current President Donald Trump, particularly over his trade tariff policy.
