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Patrick Moore Obituary
He died at his home in the coastal town of Selsey in southern England, according to a statement released Sunday. No specific cause of death was given, but he had heart problems and been confined to a wheelchair.
Moore was well known for his long-running BBC television show "The Sky at Night," which was credited for popularizing astronomy with generations of Britons. He had presented the show for more than half a century.
The statement said he was briefly hospitalized last week when it was determined no more treatment would help him. Instead, his wish to spend his final days at home were honored.
"Over the past few years, Patrick, an inspiration to generations of astronomers, fought his way back from many serious spells of illness and continued to work and write at a great rate, but this time his body was too weak to overcome the infection which set in a few weeks ago," the statement said.
It was signed by various staff members and friends, including Queen guitarist Brian May. May said Moore was irreplaceable and had stirred millions through his broadcasts.
"Patrick will be mourned by the many to whom he was a caring uncle, and by all who loved the delightful wit and clarity of his writings, or enjoyed his fearlessly eccentric persona in public life," May said.
In its obituary, the Daily Telegraph reported that Moore believed he was the only person to have met the first man to fly, Orville Wright, as well as the first man in space, Russian Yuri Gagarin, and the first man on the moon, the late Neil Armstrong.
Moore, who received a knighthood in 2001, had recently celebrated the 55th anniversary of his program. He only missed one episode, because of an illness caused by food poisoning. He was known for his trademark monocle and his occasional xylophone performances and his frequently professed love of cats.
He wrote dozens of books using a 1908 typewriter he received as a gift when he was 8.
Moore had long expressed an interest in traveling into space, but said he wasn't medically fit to do so — he said he was so large that a special rocket would be needed.
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
41 Entries
Andrew Abramovitz
February 24, 2015
Just heard the Sibelius and suddenly remembered how it was a prelude to his enthusiasm and authority and to being able to stay up late to wonder about great things. How much I miss that optimism about life in today's grim climate of destruction and worldwide killing and war. I hope we can still reach for the stars in peace and harmony.
Cath Jenkins
January 13, 2013
Thank you for the inspiration Sir Patrick. Your spirit will live on for many years to come.
Margaret Bloomer
December 28, 2012
The Sibelius, the monocle and the air force tie... inspired generations of young astronomers. RIP Patrick.
December 19, 2012
MAY THE GOD OF HEAVEN BE WITH THE MOORE FAMILY,GOD HAS SAID THAT HE WOULD BE THEIR COMFORTER IN THEIR TIME OF NEED."HAPPY ARE THOSE WHO MOURN,SINCE THEY WILL BE COMFORTED."..MATT.5:4.....DM
How you can show support
Graham Cox
December 18, 2012
I just wish to express my thanks for all that Patrick did for others throughout his life, and the enthusiasm with which he faced life. He is an example to us all.
I, like most of those who felt compelled to write here, have fond memories of staying up late to watch Patrick on the Sky at night. His manner was always polite and inquisitive, and he never seemed to pretend that he knew more than his guests. I have heard many more examples over this week since his death which highlight what a remarkable and humble man he was.
No-one wants to face the prospect of death, but maybe Patrick can reminds us all to grab each day with the same exuberance. We are so fortunate that he lived at a time where his contribution could be so thoroughly documented - his life's work will outlive us all. I know Patrick was not religious, but I would hope he would not disagree with the thoughts expressed in the Bible at Ecclesiastes 7:1-2.
Hans Akkerman
December 16, 2012
He has joined the stars he so loved.
Joe Strummer
December 13, 2012
One of the last of a truly great generation. We will never see their like again. Let's hope that candle gets blown out. God bless you Patrick.
presley turner aged 8
December 13, 2012
Sir patrick, thank you so much showing me round your house and answering all my questions your a great man and i will miss you
Paul Gammidge-Jefferson
December 13, 2012
Patrick was one of a kind, a true gentleman and scholar. You were greatly loved and will always be missed.
Georges Braud
December 12, 2012
In the 50 years special episode of The Sky at Night, the 50-years-in-the-future virtual version of Sir Patrick Moore jocularly stated he had been uploaded to the BBC computers. But in fact he has already been uploaded to our minds and hearts - permanently -. Thank you Patrick.
December 12, 2012
To the the family of Patrick Moore - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that he will be missed by many.
Gary Hutchison
December 11, 2012
I grew up reading your books and articles. It is sad to see you leave but you have inspired may people to love astronomy. Gos speed.
With Sir Patrick in his study
Brian Walker
December 11, 2012
In 2000 I was inspired by Patrick to take up astronomy as a hobby after going to one of his lectures. In 2003 he invited my wife and I to have lunch with him at his home in Selsey after I submitted a photo for his Sky at Night programme. He wasn't a man to mince his words, he was very sincere and his knowledge was unsurpassed. He conducted a radio interview by telephone without any rehearsal. He had a subtle sense-of-humour that may be missed by some, he was a joy to be around. I shall miss him and on his programme, there will never be another like him. I hope he can blow that candle out he describes in his autobiography. Bless you Patrick.
Johnson
December 11, 2012
May the family of Mr.Moore have peace among yourselves, during this time of sorrow. The Johnson family sends their sympathy.Psalms 116:15.
Stephen Howard
December 11, 2012
my heart goes out to his family and friens. so sad to hear the news of his passing away, i will miss him as will millions of others. if not for patrick i wouldn't have the hobbys i've got.
JC
December 11, 2012
"LET HIS FLESH BECOME FRESHER THAN IN YOUTH. LET HIM RETURN TO THE DAYS OF HIS YOUTHFUL VIGOR." JOB 33:25. MAY THIS BRING HOPE FOR THE FAMILY AND FRINDS.
James Willner
December 11, 2012
May the eternal light shine upon him....
Lewis Lynch
December 11, 2012
I love astronomy because of Patrick. I had the honour of meeting him when he came to my school at the invitation of a student he had helped. The equipment broke down but he ignored the problem and gave an inspiring lecture. He had true generosity of spirit. What a wonderful soul.
Alison S
December 10, 2012
It is hard to do anything but smile when you think of the cherished Sir Patrick Moore. I remember many evenings watching his TV show as a special treat with my Dad - such wonderful memories of a wonderful British institution ! Thank you Sir Patrick for sharing your love of astronomy with all of us - now we have a new star to cherish. God's Speed Sir Patrick, God's Speed !
December 10, 2012
My heartfelt condolence goes out to your family. The loss of a dear loved one may be hard to bear. May the God of all comfort grant you the peace that excels all thought as you fondly remember your dear loved one.
Julienne Harris
December 10, 2012
A new star in the heavens above. Thank you for inspiring me to always look up and gaze.
David Baird
December 10, 2012
Admired by many even half a world away, your friends in Salt Lake City Utah, will miss your wonderful explanations of this beautiful galaxy that we live in.
The Baird Family
Steele
December 10, 2012
May the God of comfort comfort you in your time of need. May your love one rest in pease until Jesus says wake up.
Richard Craven
December 10, 2012
There are very few people who give so much inpiration to so many people. Rest in peace Sir Patrick.
Bryan & Barb Howlett
December 10, 2012
Another star was added to the Sky at Night and its name is "Sir Patrick Moore". Rest in peace.
December 10, 2012
A man dedicated to science and to educating the public. He will be missed dearly but will always be remembered. Comfort from God's Word at Psalm 34:17,18 will bring a measure of solace.
December 10, 2012
Please accept my condolences during this time of sadness. May the peace of God that excels all thought, comfort the family during this difficult time.
An impromptue chat with Sir Patrick Moore, Northampton, England, UK (2002)
Mark Piatowski
December 10, 2012
Mark Piatowski
December 10, 2012
I saw Sir Patrick play the xylophone at a summer concert called symphony under the stars and met him personally in 2002 as you can see. I thanked him for being one of those inspiring characters that encouraged me to go into teaching and educating people on their level. I asked him whether he still used his telescopes, which he was finding difficultly, showing me his hand. He said, if your in Selsey look me up i'm listed in the phone book. After the event, i sent him a 45th Anniversary card i'd made for the Sky At Night programme, which i got signed for him by the Astronauts and Cosmonauts who had attended the event that weekend. They were only too pleased off course. He sent me a thank you note, typed on his old typewriter. I am no one special, but as has been mentioned, he gave so much of his time and consideration even to those like myself. I am by no means a relegious man ... but it feels appropriate to say "God Bless You Sir Patrick", you will never be forgotten in the hearts of so many.
LP
December 10, 2012
May the GOD who comforts all comfort you in your time of pain and grief. (2corinth. 1:3) May your fond memories of him bring you comfort and peace.
keith morris
December 10, 2012
I arranged Sir Patrick to come to Edinburgh, Scotland to give a short lecture to the Fellowship of Junior Astronomers based at The City observatory on Calton Hill Edinburgh. This happened in 1970. Sir Patrick was collected at the station and proceeded to give an extremely informative short lecture, or in his case packed with information, on his favourite subject the Moon. He was so friendly and spent time with the young astronomers answering all of their questions. I will always remember his visit.
I also wrote to him around this time and he kindly sent back a postcard with his greeting from his other love Selsy, his home town in the south on England
He inspired and nurtured my interest in the heavens, and all things connected, and now being 58 years old still go outside on a clear night, or should i say not so clear night here in Scotland, to watch the heavens and perhaps the passing of the International Space Station souring across the sky.
My thoughts go out to his family and friends at this sad time but know that Patrick will be watching from on high
Edie Zielinska
December 10, 2012
Patrick, I will always remember you.You have inspired me.You are an infinite being.Will miss you very much.
Tracey .A. Prout
December 10, 2012
Rest in peace Patrick.
December 10, 2012
Onward to the Stars you loved so much Patrick! A giant amongest the 'star watchers'. An avid watcher of your programmes since the 70's, I will miss you.
Vic Brash DipSM MIIRSM
December 10, 2012
To the Family of Mr Patrick Moore:
Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your dear loved one. May God grant you peace to help you cope with your loss. Rm. 15:33
Lynn Harmon
December 9, 2012
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the Moore family, during your time of grief.- Psalm 46:1. God is for us a refuge and strength. A help that is ready to be found during difficult times. May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.-Romans 15:4.
Kimtraila Williams
December 9, 2012
Mr. Patrick Moore Family,
After They Are Gone
When someone we love passes away,
We ache, but we go on;
Our dear departed would want us to heal,
After they are gone.
Grief is a normal way to mend
The anguish and pain in our hearts;
We need time to remember and time to mourn,
Before the recovery starts.
Let's draw together to recuperate,
As we go through this period of sorrow;
Let's help each other, with tender care
To find a brighter tomorrow.
God Bless, and God Bless America.
Kimtraila Williams
December 9, 2012
You inspired so many. Your spirit will live on dancing and playing xylophone with the stars. Thank you for all you have given.
December 9, 2012
Our heartfelt condolences to the Moore family. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Mat the God who gives peace be with all of you. Deepest Sympathy
James Richardson
December 9, 2012
Sir Patrick Moore, we will miss you, an inspiration and tutor to all.
Geoff Rowe
December 9, 2012
He changed my path when I met him in Armagh in the late 60s. He remains an inspiration and a giant of popular science.
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