WASHINGTON — Former US Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld has died at the age of 88, according to a statement from his family.

No cause of death was immediately provided.

"It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Donald Rumsfeld, an American statesman and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. At 88, he was surrounded by family in his beloved Taos, New Mexico," the family said in a statement released Wednesday.

"History may remember him for his extraordinary accomplishments over six decades of public service, but for those who knew him best and whose lives were forever changed as a result, we will remember his unwavering love for his wife Joyce, his family and friends and the integrity he brought to a life dedicated to country."

Rumsfeld was surrounded by family at his home in New Mexico.

Rumsfeld served as US secretary of defense under President Gerald Ford from 1975 to 1977 and again from 2001 to 2006 under President George W. Bush. — Agencies