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Steven Nagel
1946 - 2014
Steven Nagel
1946 - 2014
Obituary
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BORN
1946
DIED
2014
Steven Nagel Obituary
NASA said in a news release that Nagel died Thursday. Longtime friend Ed Reinholtz said Nagel died of cancer in Columbia, Missouri.
Nagel was a test pilot for the Air Force before becoming an astronaut in 1979.
NASA said he was a mission specialist during a June 1985 Discovery flight and the pilot aboard the Challenger in October 1985. He was commander on his last two missions - an Atlantis flight in April 1991 and a 10-day trip on Columbia in April 1993.
Nagel later worked as deputy director and deputy chief in two separate offices at Houston's Johnson Space Center. Nagel retired from NASA in 2011.
Copyright © 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
81 Entries
Dawn Mahtar
January 8, 2015
Linda, I am so sad to hear about Steve's death. I remember the first time I drove into Canton and saw the "100th astronaut" sign - I could have never imagined that I would soon be welcomed into that very astronaut's family, if only for a few years. I was so in awe of both of you, but what I remember most was that neither of you felt or acted like the extraordinary jobs you had made you any better or different than anyone else. I still laugh about the time we came home and heard a message on the answering machine from Steve - "Well, Linda had a good space walk today..." - as if it was any day at the office. I have thought about you, Steve, and the girls often over the years, but tonight an extra prayer goes out for all of you.
Fred Wright
December 17, 2014
I wouldn't walk across the street for an autograph of any celeb, but when I (by happenstance and too lengthy to explain) saw Steve standing on the tarmac at The El Paso, Tx airport I almost ran to shake his hand. That was shortly after the big "explosion" over Texas and I merely wanted to express my sympathy for the loss of his friends. The most cordial gentleman with his time and invited me to sit in his jet, which was near where he was addressing a group on Boy Scouts. I will always cherish the beautiful 8 X 10 autographed picture I received from him one week later. LONG LIVE THE BRAVE MEN OF HIS PROFESSION!!
Fred Wright, Wynnewood, Okla
Paul Chalklin
December 8, 2014
I met Steven fleetingly at 35,000ft on a commercial flight from the USA to London around 1991. We sat next to each other and exchanged small talk and eventually slept on the flight. The next morning at breakfast he asked me what my occupation was and I told him that I worked in IT for newspapers. I then asked him the same question and he told me he was an Astronaut. Steven was on his way (if I remember correctly) to The Gambia where he was checking a Shuttle emergency landing site. He was incredibly modest about his achievements and I was enthralled by what he told me. During the conversation he asked me if I had any children and I said I had a young daughter. He asked for my address so that he could send her photographs of the Shuttle from Houston when he returned. We wrote the address on a napkin as it was the only piece of paper we could find. In time the pictures arrived, including a signed photograph of Steven. We still have them and I still recount to people "the time I met an Astronaut".
May I offer my belated condolences for someone who so unexpectedly made an impression on my life.
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Bill Bowers
November 6, 2014
Linda, please accept my belated but hearfelt condolences! I've had Steve's name on a "sticky" on my desk ever since I got the gut-wrenching news of his death so y'all have been on my mind daily. Of all of the astronauts I trained in Photo/TV, two stood out with the incredible combinations of intelligence, humility, humor, & friendliness....you and Steve. When y'all got married, I knew that was a match made in heaven and what your were both destined for. I hope these past few months have brought much healing to you and the girls and that the incredible legacy Steve left in his wake will sustain and comfort you as you go about life in a manner that I know is most pleasing to Steve. Hugs from back in Texas. -Bill Bowers
Christina Martin Tomasic
October 10, 2014
So many beautiful tributes to Steve, I cannot add anything but they are all true. As you would know, there was a huge void at our recent 50th high school class reunion. I am sorry that I was unable to attend the fly-in (as I had to return to my home out of state). My husband and I would occasionally run into Steve at U of IL Engineering functions. It was always a treat to catchup with Steve. One of the Very Best, R.I.P. and God bless you all.
September 18, 2014
May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time in your lives. We all yearn for better conditions. It's refreshing to know that God's word speaks of a time when all sorrows will be gone and that mankind will live in beautiful surroundings with nothing to fear.-Isaiah 65:17,21-24.
Roy Howarter
September 12, 2014
The Howarter family sends our Sympathies to the Nagel family, I wish to express our sympathies to Steve's family at his untimely passing. I was friends with him in “Indian Guides” when we were children in Canton. My younger brother Fred was a classmate of his (he died in 2005 of high blood pressure), I was about four years older than them. In 1990, my older brother, David, copied our parents 8MM moving pictures tapes to VHS tape. Fred contacted Steve and on his request, Dave sent Steve a copy of Steve and Fred's class at the John Dean School parading in their Halloween Costumes. If you find a tape of kids in 1950's Halloween Costumes, that is Steve's class. I don't know what year that was, but the John Dean School was only First through Fourth grades. As I saw when I looked Steve up on the internet, he was always a kind, friendly, and intelligent person. I remember going to an Indian Guide camp with him, in Wisconsin (I think), and a man dressed as an Indian chief doing an Indian Dance with Steve and me (and maybe Fred). I think this was on the video also. I also remember his father Pete. Steve apparently learned well from him, Pete was always a kind, friendly and considerate person. I still remember the time Pete took everyone in our Indian Guides group for a ride in his airplane. I also remember my father taking about how Pete would fly to the Peoria airport every day, take a commercial plane to Chicago, and back again at night to be with his family while working in Chicago for a while. A verse in the Bible is commonly translated some thing like “A good man leaves a valuable inheritance for his Grandchildren.” The Nagel family seems to have followed the true meaning which is “A good man leaves a valuable legacy of honest, kindness and consideration to the following Generations.” I haven't seen Steve for many many years, but the Nagel family obviously has a great Christian Legacy. We took a tour of Cape Canaveral about 10 years ago. There was a talk, then a question and answer session afterwards by an Astronaut, I don't remember his name I asked about Steve – he said he knew him and had great respect for him. Steve is gone from this place, but he has left it a better place for me and many others...
September 11, 2014
SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS,MAY YOU ALL WALK WITH GOD....ISA.51:12....
Chris Naccarato
September 6, 2014
Dear Linda, I am so very sorry to hear about Steve's passing. I will never forget Steve's amazing smile and gentle personality. I will carry with me always the many fond memories of visiting with Steve here in Idaho when you both came to visit my classroom, in Houston where he gave me the amazing tour of Ellington Field, and in Florida at your launch reception. My Prayers go out to you and your children at this very sad time in your lives. GOD Bless you all.
Dot Eversull
September 4, 2014
Linda, I am so sorry to hear about Steve's death. I loved him like family and so enjoyed his visits over the years. He was such a wonderful person and role model. He will be missed by my entire family,
steve nagel
September 2, 2014
My Sincere Sympathies to Steves family. I am his second cousin and ironically we shared the same name. I really admired Steve when he cam out to visit us in Oregon, which he did twice. He was such a role model, and so humble, as he really had such a leadership type personality. I last spoke to him in April by phone when I was visiting relatives in Ottawa Illinois. I am shocked, saddened by is passing. My prayers and heart felt sympathies go out to his family during these difficult times
August 31, 2014
My condolences goes to you all Acts24:15
August 31, 2014
My condolences to the family. Such a great man. He will be dearly missed. May the god of comfort strengthen you during this time
August 29, 2014
It was my honor and privilege to have Steve be a guest at my recent Youth Forum in Missouri at a ham radio convention. He was an intelligent and gentle man whom I am proud to have known. My sympathies to Linda and the family. Carole Perry
August 29, 2014
So sorry for the families loss. But one day soon death will be swallowed up and will be no more.
Zhaire
August 28, 2014
I am very sorry for your lost and may the god of comfort be with you and may he help through your trials
Steve Borgelt
August 26, 2014
I am fortunate to have worked with Steve Nagel while he was at Mizzou. He was a wonderful and humble professional.
August 26, 2014
Soon death will be no more
Chuck and Beth Turner
August 26, 2014
Linda, Whitney and Lauren,
I am so sorry for your loss. I was so blessed to work for you both as my first crew. STS-37 will always have a special place in my heart. Steve was such a class act. Pretty sure Steve is flying without a jet now, because there is no one else, that I know of, that more deserves a straight shot to heaven. May God give you all grace and strength until you see Steve again. Love you.
Christine Masters
August 26, 2014
Sincerest condolences.
Thomas Herbst
August 26, 2014
Steve Nagel was a teacher, of aviation science, yes; but of how to live and care for those around him, even better the teacher of this. All in his orbit were blessed. Inexplicably, -- he was taken too soon because he continued to serve others so well. We must be thankful and in tribute try to emulate the example he set. "Hugs" to Linda, Lauren, Whitney and Alex. "Hugs" to extended family and friends.
Alan @Linda Dilts
August 26, 2014
In your loss we are praying for your family.
Mary Jo Adams
August 26, 2014
I had the privilege of knowing Steve when I worked with him in the College of Engineering at MU. He was a very kind, humble man who reflected his faith in the way lived his life. May the Lord's grace and strength be with you, and may you cherish your wonderful memories of him.
Jillian
August 25, 2014
May the Beautiful Memories of your loved one provide Solace and Strength to you and your family during this difficult time. May you also find comfort in God's promise of life without end in Paradise. Matthew 5:5 , Acts 25:15
Latricia Vaughn
August 25, 2014
May Holy Spirit, Comforter, surround you & fill you with peace during this time of grief & sadness. God bless each of you.
Stanley Manahan
August 25, 2014
Anne and I extend our deepest condolences on the loss of Colonel Nagel, a man dedicated to his family, flying, and teaching. Linda, you and your daughter have our sincerest sympathy.
S. Hill
August 25, 2014
To the family, Luke 20:38 assures us that your loved one is in God's memory. Please find comfort in that hope.
John and Brenda
August 25, 2014
Our deep, heartfelt condolences to the Nagel family. Steven was a very adventurous man as evident by his career choice and experiences in life. This love has enabled our nation to make many advancements within our galaxy. For this, we are truly thankful to him. During this heartbreaking period, please try to find comfort through prayer being assured that God will respond abundantly to your request. Remembering Steven Nagel with abounding appreciation!
K B
August 25, 2014
Our Deepest condolences for the family. When remembering Steven, rely on God's word for strength. [Isaiah 12:2]
Matthew Arri
August 25, 2014
I worked with Steve in the MU College of Engineering and Steve was such a great person! He will be missed by students, faculty, and staff. He shared with me his interest in learning how to play the piano and I hope that he realizes this dream in heaven. My condolences to his family.
Barry Campbell
August 25, 2014
Rest in Peace.
Vickie Kloeris
August 25, 2014
Linda,
So very, very sorry to hear of Steve's passing. You were both such a pleasure to work with. May God comfort you and the rest of the family at this difficult time.
Mike Davis
August 25, 2014
I was shocked to hear of Steve's passing as I did not know he was battling cancer. As president of the Houston Illini Club I met Steve once when Linda and he were kind enough to speak to our Club at a dinner to honor our Scholarship winner. Two things stood out about both of them...they had a passion for their professions and they were genuinely kind people. Wishing you the best during this difficult time.
wilma
August 25, 2014
Mr Nagel had a deep appreciation for God's creation, to the family I send my condolences during this difficult time of mourning
Margaret Hayes
August 25, 2014
Please allow God to heal your broken heart.
Sheila
August 24, 2014
In Gods care.
Bo, Mary & Elizabeth Bejmuk
August 24, 2014
It was a privilege to be a friend of Steve's. Mourning the loss of such a lovely man. To our friend Lauren, we are here for you, and keep you in our prayers.
michelle plakas-kaiser
August 24, 2014
rip
John Miller
August 24, 2014
Steve, you are now truly soaring with the Angels. We chased so many clouds and dreams back in the A-7 days at Alex. And we treasure the fun times we had at the o'club trying to best the other 2 squadrons. Flying with you was a special treat that I will always treasure. Then there was the day we found each other on the radio over a place that didn't exist and flying planes that didn't exist. You responded immediately to the call sign "Alpo" .... and then following you on your astronaut adventures was truly spectacular. You made our world a better place. Blue skies and tailwinds, my friend.
John & DeSha Miller
August 24, 2014
Linda,
Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your daughters. We all will miss Steve. But, we believe, he is flying higher now than he ever has before.
Winston & Marilyn Scott
Emma Jean
August 24, 2014
To Steve's Family,
“SUDDENLY, from behind the rim of the moon, . . . there emerges a sparkling blue and white jewel, a light, delicate sky-blue sphere laced with slowly swirling veils of white, rising gradually like a small pearl in a thick sea of black mystery.”—Edgar Mitchell, astronaut, describing the earth as seen from space. Very few have seen our beautiful planet Earth from space. Steve was one of the few privileged to travel in space. He will be missed.
May God give you peace, and “power beyond what is normal,” during this difficult time.-2 Corinthians 4:7.
G. Freeman
August 24, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
August 24, 2014
So sorry to hear of your loss at John 6 44 it tells us they will stand again
Dee
August 24, 2014
The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. Know that you can go to god in prayer to strengthen and comfort you. Psalms 121. We share your grief.
Harry Simpson
August 24, 2014
Rest Steven, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
KD
August 24, 2014
Mr. Nagel had a deep appreciation for the wonderful things that were created. He will be remembered for his accomplishments. Please accept my sincere condolences Nagel family.
David Hamilton
August 24, 2014
Very saddened to hear of Steve's passing. Steve was such a great guy, humble, a real pilot, and had the right stuff. He was so kind.
Milt Heflin
August 24, 2014
Linda and Family...I had no idea he was fighting this...very saddened to hear...both of you have been in my "favorites" for many, many years...right now I'm looking at the "Ocean Hopper" shortwave radio that Steve and his dad built back in the 50's...Steve gave it to me cause he knew this was the first receiver I had when I became a licensed amateur radio operator in 1957...every day I use his SSB transceiver in my "radio shack"! Good memories...may you find comfort in your family and many friends...Love ya...Milt
James Runyan
August 24, 2014
Linda and family
I am sorry for your loss. I have always enjoyed my uncle Steven Clayberg stores about Steve. God Bless you all.
August 24, 2014
God Bless --- Now you will be among the stars forever --- RIP
August 24, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Eccl. 9:10,11.
Jane Dowling
August 24, 2014
God bless you and your loved ones ~ Rest in peace.
Scott Chamberland
August 24, 2014
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
DON
August 24, 2014
I am sorry for your loss. Steve was able to observe Gods' creations from a different vantage point (Job 38:31-33). He will be missed by many.
August 24, 2014
To the family of STEVEN NAGEL I send my condolences. During this difficult time of mourning I hope you draw comfort from the GOD of comfort. ISAIAH 61;1,2.
sincerely,
JWJC
Rickey McCraney
August 24, 2014
Steven , RIP , followed you as my Father served in the USAF as well! God Bless You!
Don Magnusson
August 23, 2014
Linda and Family,
I am deeply saddened to hear of Steve's passing. I have many wonderful memories of working with Steve in SAIL at JSC and flying with you in the Aero Club as your instructor. What a privilege and honor that was! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your girls.
Joe & Jody Ripma
August 23, 2014
Linda,
Our deepest sympathies. Jody and I grieve with you. Wish there were more we could do for you.
Sheryl R. Lamb-Davis
August 23, 2014
R.I.P.
Robert Freeman
August 23, 2014
Good man and proud to call him my cousin. Rest in peace my friend
Sherryl Lane
August 23, 2014
Steve, I knew you in Alexandria, La. 1973.We re-connected by email in 2012 and caught up with each others lives.You were a good friend to me, my now ex-husband and of course my children. My youngest son became a pilot because of your wonderful influence.Your reputation,dedication to your country and your family was honorable. You will be sorely missed my friend by everyone who was fortunate enough to have known you. God speed you on your new journey to be with God, the Master of the Universe. God bless your wife and daughters on their journey without you.Sherryl Lane, formerly Ballard.
Carole Gust Hill
August 23, 2014
Thank you for your service, a good man , now a great angel. R.I.P. Steven, fly higher than you ever did on your missions.
Tom Diegelman
August 23, 2014
Linda and family-
As a grunt in B.5, I worked with many crew members over the years. There were some that just stuck out as decent, polite folks that were a joy to work with - Ox van Hoften, Norm Thagaart, and of course Steve. He and I worked on the MEDS upgrade, and many crew related activities. When I went to work directly for NASA, Steve always had time for a quick chat.
I asked him at his retirement party to speak at the Lakewood Yacht Club for 300+ people gathered to have a "30 years of shuttle Flight" celebration. Of course, he agreed to be the guest speaker! That was Steve, never too busy! He did an interview with Channel 2 (HOU-2) Ryan Korsgaard. I am sending that video to you because if ever 15 seconds of fame defined a man, this is it. Humble, but proud, gracious but stoic, and ever smiling.
God Bless you Steve, for all you did for your country, the Shuttle Program, for JSC, for us grunt who were only too glad to serve you as trainers, and most of all for the love and kindness you brought to your family. I know you have by now touched the face of Jesus…welcome home….its wheel stop for the very last time…..
Tom Diegelman
Triple and Tammy Nickel
August 23, 2014
Linda, Tammy and I send our deepest regrets. Our prayers go out to you. He was a wonderful man and it is an honor to call him our friend. He was so cheerful in April when we Face Timed with y'all. So sorry. Triple and Tammy Nickel
Jim Murray
August 23, 2014
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth of sun-split clouds, — and done a hundred things. You have not dreamed of—wheeled and soared and swung High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there, I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung My eager craft through footless halls of air....
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace Where never lark nor ever eagle flew— And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.
Thanks for being a Hero Mr. Nagel rest in peace.
August 23, 2014
Linda and Girls, Connie and I are devastated by the untimely loss of Steve! He was so great to work with (and you too!!!) and just spend time with! We so enjoyed our last visit, and will be seeing you this fall! God Bless you!!! Chuck and Connie Shaw
Tom Fisher
August 23, 2014
Dearest Linda, Whitney and Lauren, Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss of Steve. He has been such a good friend over the years and I will miss him. I have been reading all of the wonderful things that are being said about him and, of course, I am not surprised how he touched people.
August 23, 2014
Linda and family, Kathy and I are so sorry to hear about the loss of Steve. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to get to know Steve who was one of the finest people that I have ever worked with. He was a role model and inspiration to others in every aspect of his professional life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in your grief. May he rest in peace.
Charlie and Kathy Harlan
August 23, 2014
I remember Steve from his rotations through SAIL in Bldg. 16 at JSC during the early Shuttle days. He was a gentleman, kind, and always happy and smiling. So very sorry to hear of his death. Thank you for sharing information on his melanoma. It will encourage others to be checked by their doctors. My sincerest sympathy to all his family. - Donna Hinson
Charlie Ober
August 23, 2014
Linda and Girls: I am so sad to hear about Steve. He was one of the best duty officers I ever worked with. What a gentleman, a great pilot, and friend. He's on a higher "plane" now, and the angels will love him!
Charlie O.
Dickinson, TX
Karen Eubanks
August 23, 2014
Linda and family, So incredibly sorry for your loss. It was an honor and privilege to know him. I will never forget all the many small generous things i saw him do for others so often. He had a wonderful smile, sense of humor and quite kindness that was unforgettable. He will be greatly missed by all who were blessed enough to know him. Our prayers continue to go with you and your family.
Margie Keller
August 22, 2014
Linda, I am so sorry. I always thought you and Steve were really great folks to know. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God wrap his loving arms around you during this sad time.
August 22, 2014
So sorry for your loss, Linda. Steve was very special to a lot of people.
- Bill & Cindy Brizzolara
Susan Dawson
August 22, 2014
Linda, our hearts ache for you. Steve was such a wonderful and Godly man. We will miss his smiling face in Choir and in Sunday School. We think about you often and want you to know that you can call on us anytime for anything. - Rob and Susan Dawson
Rob Kelso
August 22, 2014
Linda and Family - it was such a surprise to hear of Steve's passaing...but he is with the Lord. I have know both you and Steve for sooo many wonderful years and wonderful adventures....plus church. Please know that you and your famility are in my thoughts and prayers. We love you both!
Rob Kelso
Sheri Locke
August 22, 2014
Linda - I am so sorry for your loss. My memories of Steve remind me of what an incredibly sweet person he was and what a joy he brought to everyone around him. Please accept my virtual hugs of support.
Sincerely,
Sheri Dunnette Locke
August 22, 2014
Warm, friendly and we will surely miss Steve.
Walter and Dot Cunningham
August 22, 2014
Linda & family, I was so sorry to hear of your (and our) loss. It has been such a pleasure to get to know Steve in this short time since you moved to Columbia. I will treasure the memories of us singing together in choir and appreciate his volunteering in the Upward Basketball program. I enjoyed his humor and his kindness. Take care and lean on us, your church family...... Kevin Scantlan
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