The universe lost a beloved, iconic actor today. Leonard Nimoy died today at the age of 83, at his home in Bel Air from complications of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Nimoy was an accomplished actor, director, poet, photographer, singer, and songwriter. He of course is mostly known, and will always be known, for his portrayal of First Officer Mr. Spock in the original Star Trek television series as well as the Star Trek motion pictures.

It was about a year ago that Mr. Nimoy announced he had been diagnosed with COPD which was brought on by his smoking habits his younger self had developed. Mr. Nimoy had actually given up smoking over 30 years ago. He had reportedly been in and out of the hospital a few times this year before losing his battle with the disease.

With 1.7 million followers on twitter, Mr. Nimoy kept people entertained with his poetry or just inspirational thoughts. His last tweet was only 5 days ago and it read:

“A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. LLAP.” LLAP is the abbreviated form of “Live Long and Prosper,” Mr. Spock’s most iconic catchphrase.

Earlier that same day he had shared one of his poems with his millions of fans.

Like most fans when we heard the news our minds went to Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan, to when Mr. Spock had died saving his friends and crew from destruction aboard the USS Enterprise, and the funeral that followed. The words of Captain James Kirk given during Spock’s eulogy have been quoted countless times today, by people who never met the legend, but still found it entirely fitting.

“Of my friend, I can say only this…of all the souls I have encountered in my travels, his was the most human.”

I think one of my favorite non Star Trek related moments in his career is his 1967 “The Ballad of Bilbo Baggins” song and video. I’ve watched it a few times today, because I needed the smile. I’ve posted it below, just in case you are in need of a smile too.

We at SG2M are very saddened by this loss, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. To all of you…Live Long and Prosper, because he most certainly did.