Billionaire GOP donor and philanthropist David Koch has passed away at the age of 79. David Koch was part of the Koch family behind one of the most influential political organizations in modern time. The Koch foundation has clashed with presidents from both sides of the aisle.

David Koch was even the vice-presidential candidate for the libertarian party that garnered 1 percent of the vote during the Reagan-Carter election in 1980.

According to CNBC:

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my brother David,” Charles Koch announced in a statement. “Anyone who worked with David surely experienced his giant personality and passion for life.”

Koch and his 83-year-old brother, Charles, ran Koch Industries, one of the nation’s largest privately held conglomerates. Its investments include subsidiaries involved with manufacturing, refining and distribution of chemicals, fibers and minerals.

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The brothers, whose last name is pronounced coke, financed one of the most influential political networks in the modern era. The sprawling political empire includes conservative and libertarian nonprofits such as Americans for Prosperity, Freedom Partners and Concerned Veterans for America.

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Koch’s political views were often mirrored by the party he once represented when he ran for president. He was a vocal backer of free market policies and a reduction in government spending. He was also a noninterventionist, calling for the United States to have limited involvement in wars around the world.

David Koch’s net worth was around $42 billion making him the 11th richest person in the world.