Veteran Of Two Shuttle Missions... And A Good Friend... 

E-I-C Note: As I get older, I note that the world seems to be getting smaller... especially as the people who showed me how big and extraordinary it is, disappear from our existence. 

NASA Veteran Astronaut Sam Durrance, a truly unique gentleman, and a great person to discuss 'life' with, has gone west. Normally, I'd have a lot to say... but his beloved family says it best. 

"Sam died quietly today (May 5, 2023) surrounded by family after a long struggle with dementia and Parkinson’s disease. He had spent his final days in hospice care at a facility in Viera, Florida. 

Sam was a veteran of two Space Shuttle missions, flying in 1990 and 1995 as a payload specialist and operating a collection of four telescopes as part of the Astro-1 and Astro-2 Spacelabs. A true scientist to the end and beyond, Sam asked that his body be donated to support the ongoing medical research associated with astronauts who have flown in space. At the conclusion of that research, he will be cremated, and the remains returned to the family. 

A memorial service will be held in Melbourne, Florida, later this year. We are comforted to know Sam is in heaven with his savior, Jesus Christ, and very much appreciate everyone’s love and prayers during this difficult time."

ANN extends its prayers, condolences, and best wishes to Sam's many, many friends and family... we'll miss him. 

FMI: www.nasa.gov