Randy Pausch, the Carnegie-Mellon computer science professor whose "last lecture" became a viral hit on the Internet, has died. The news is here, but I won't get into the details of his death. More important are the details of his life. They go far beyond his research in the field of virtual reality and virtual worlds -- he was a fantastic teacher to his students, his children, and, thanks to the online video that CMU posted last year, millions of people all over the world.
If you have a little free time, and you haven't seen it, I urge you to watch what Randy had to say in his last lecture at CMU to his colleagues, current and former students, and his wife, after he knew his cancer was terminal. "Achieving Your Childhood Dreams" is not a downer, but rather has an inspirational and uplifting message. Pausch weaved together the strands of his work and personal life in a very special way, and there are lessons for everyone. Here's the video, from last September:
The heroes of the tech world are usually coders and entrepreneurs, who are judged by the products that they design and the businesses that they start. Randy made some major contributions to his field (such as overseeing the development of the 3D programming environment, Alice) but it is his accomplishments as a human being that make him a true hero.
We'll miss you, Randy.
Comments
This is very sad news. He was a great man and an inspiration to many, including me. I was so happy to hear that J.J. gave him a small role on the new Star Trek and I was really hoping that he would make it long enough to see himself when the movie premiered in May. Thank you J.J. for making one of his dreams come true.
You will be missed my friend. Beam him up, dad
Chris: Thanks for your comment. In the video, he mentions two childhood dreams that he did not achieve by the time of the lecture in 2007 -- being on Star Trek, and playing for a professional football team. The video actually enabled him to achieve both of these dreams -- besides the Star Trek film, he also got to practice with some of the Steelers a few months ago, which one of the TV networks helped arrange. And, he was pretty good -- his lessons from his high school coach served him well!
Ian Lamont
Managing Editor
The Industry Standard
Ian, thank you for bringing increased awareness to Randy's story.
I'd been following it on WSJ.com, and I like so many others was truly touched by his brave, heroic message in the face of certain death.
I know there are many more people like Randy out there whose stories will hopefully be told.
I would just like to express my deepest sympathy to Randy Pausch's family and friends. I have recently read his book and have tried to learn everything I could about him via the internet. He truly was an amazing person- his thoughts about acheiving childhood dreams has prompted me to realize that I have met some of mine and to be more grateful for the life I have had. Also to be grateful for good health and not to take it for granted. He was truly an inspiration - I am so sorry for his family's loss- he will be missed by many! Sincerely, Patty Kay Herndon
I just read Randy's book last week. It was given to me by a friend and I couldn't put it down. I feel as if I have lost a friend. Thank you Randy for your gift of wisdom of living life to the fullest. Thank-you Randy for being an inspiration to me in my current cancer treatment. I am sure God has great plans for you.
RIP Randy. Thanks for your teachings.
My sincere condolences to his family.
My deepest sympathy to his family. I hope they will remember that his story touched many as I know it touched me. I felt hope and encouragement as I read his book and heard his lecture. Not very many people get to make such an impact. You are in our prayers as is he.
So many hearts are broken, but our memories of this fine man will last forever. Blessings to his beautiful wife and children, and all his family and friends. Please know that he touched so many people who came to love him.
Without ever meeting him in person, I still felt as though I knew him. Someone like Randy comes along only rarely.
Peace be with you, Randy.
I am an RN who in the end of my career am working with Hospice and I so much enjoyed the lectures and messages that Randy posted on his Web Site. I have taken care of many, many people with cancer and they are all truly remarkable people but once in a lifetime comes a person such as Randy who can put into words so many feelings that most people have who are facing the end of their life. He was truly an inspiration to all in Hospice whether they are the cargivers or the care receivers. My heart aches for J.J. and the children. God bless them
Pauline Callahan R.N.
Stone Lake, Wi. 54876
I am so sad to hear of Randy's passing. My mother died two years ago on July 27, 2006 from pancreatic cancer and Randy was an excellent fighter of this dreaded disease, He inspired many people and it will be extremely hard to find anyone with his wit and positive attitude while fighting this disease. God bless his family as they mourn his passing.
R
Randy's Last Lecture was, so appropriately, dedicated to his children. They will be forever proud of their father for leaving that legacy, not just to them, but to millions of others. What an inspiration.
What an inspirational man and what a tragic loss. His book will help everyone see what life is really all about. My heart just aches for his wife and small children. God comfort and protect them.
Randy Pausch touched a nerve with society- and that is what people are looking for and what is lacking now- truth and depth of purpose. He not only lived his life well but had the wisdom of a sage and the wonder of a little child, and was able to communicate it so well that he lived his calling. He lived in the moment with clear purpose and his words have deep meaning to those that heard him speak and teach becasue he was so grounded in truth. We need more Randy's to encourage others to think out of the box and not be condoned for progressive thinking. He was a dichotomy of both scientific genius and artistic imagination, a rare combination. He inspired all who knew him and kept it simple so that understanding something was the key to not only enjoying learning but a ways to a mean to learn. God got a good one today- he is surely enjoying zero gravity..My condolences to his family, friends, and all who love him.
I have been following Randy's case very closely after listening to his last lecture - A truly inspirational one. Cancer has touched my family so I know how exactly it feels to see someone you love go through the ordeal... People like Randy are a rarity who come to this world with a purpose and teach millions how to live will be missed very dearly not only by his own family and friends but also by those who have been touched by his words of teachings. With this I only pray that there are more options for cancer patients..
I just lost my husband or 481/2 years to pancreatic cancer on April 11, 2008 and I want your family to know that I personally learned so much from Randy's positive attitude. I know his faith in God sustained him as it did Jim and myself during those precious few months we had after his diagnosis. I know you and your family will miss him beyond comprehension at this point but I want you to know I really know that Randyand Jim are in Heaven and maybe playing a pickup basketball game or enjoying each others humor. My prayers are with you and your family. Sincerey, Sandy Patterson
So sad to hear that the battle has been lost. I was dreading this news as he had not posted an update since late June. God speed Randy. I didn't get to meet you in this life, but I will see you in the next. Prayers and Blessings to his family.
Sadly I just learned of the passing of Randy Pausch, we have truly lost a gifted, caring, loving, inpsirational, intelligent man with such great enthusiasm for just being alive and enjoying everday, something I believe we can all take for granted at times. I am profoundly saddened by the news, and my thoughts and prayers are for his loving wife and beautiful children. As I also have lost a loved one to the dreaded disease, my mom 18 years ago already, but still feels like it was yesterday he was a true fighter!!! I too feel like I have lost a family member all over again! I am a complete stranger to the family but in my heart wish that their was something I could do to help them in anyway! He was a true gift to us all!! And his memory will always live on!!
Nancy Miles
utica, NY
My heart goes out to not only Randy's family during this time-but also for the past 2 years they have dealt with this ferocious disease. As I am reading these comments I am struck by how many people have lost loved ones to pancreatic cancer. I too lost my mom, Aug. 2001, after her diagnosis in May 2001! This disease does not take long! I am so happy that Randy had the months that he did. I know in my heart those months were given to him to do something special- and he did just that with his lectures and the courage he showed other cancer patients.
God Bless to Randy's family, you are all in my prayers and I know my mom is up there too greeting Randy today.
Sincerely,
Julie W.
My mother was just diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and reading Randy's book and listening to his lecture will be a great inspiration to our family in coping with this disease. Thank you to Randy and his family for sharing his story with all of us!
After losing my Dad to pancreatic cancer in 1976 I hoped and prayed that Randy Pausch would be a miracle and actually beat this dread disease. For whatever reason it was not to be and I along with thousands of others feel cheated and deprived of someone some special. My heart goes out to his family...they truly must feel as if there is a hole in their life now.
While I work for a US Congressman I greatly appreciate what Randy Pausch did in order to speak to the House on pnacreatic research. He had just recently been released from the hospital and it took all of his energy. What a fantastic human being!
He is and always will be my hero.
A fellow Tiggerr.........................
If I could afford it, I would be there to honor him.
He touched my heart and soul, and will never be forgotten.
Thank you for sharing with all of us.
I am sad for his family, but I am so jealous that they had him as a husband and a father, albeit for a short time, but talk about quality over quantity!
God Bless you all!
I first heard about Randy while listening to Oprah during my prep period from teaching Science. I was hooked. I never heard about a person so was so unselfish and was batteling an incredible illness. His focus always seemed to be upon others. Even as he was making every day count, is focus was upon his wife and children and making every day count. I so admire him!! I have a feeling that the "end" came very quickly. I believe, though, that he is somewhere, making every day count in the relm that he is in. I do hope, though, that he had the time to talk to his children about his illness like he had planned. I know that, even though I never met him personally, my life will forever be better because of Randy. Jai, and children, God bless you . Randy was fortunate to have you. I hope you get through this difficult time and live life to the fullest.
My sincere and deepest sympathy to Randy's family. I was fortunate to see the "last Lecture" and it truly impacted my life. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during thiis difficult time. God Bless!
Shortly before I heard about Randy's death, I was telling a friend to be quiet.. I was on the phone and just caught Randy's name and I was so excited about telling about this wonderful man . Just thought it was another one of his apperances , since I first saw him on Oprah.
When I got off the phone I turned on my computer and the first thing I saw was the top story of the day was of his deathI still can't quit crying and I know he will be so missed by millions that he inspired Have not read his book, but intend to.I have been printing out what I can.
Many of us are not as brave as he was. I am so thankful that he had such a great and supporative family. My heart and prayers go out to them this night
God Bless
Quinelle Voss
I
I am grateful to have walked the earth at the same time as someone like Randy. he used to laugh and want no "St. Randy" jokes but the truth is he has done well what he was born to do--teach! What joy he has left in the world and what better legacy is that?
I just wanted to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Randy. I read the book and have watched the vidoe and he has changed the way I deal with my life and the difficulties we all face. I know that when certain situations have arised I ask myself how would Randy handle this. He really taught us to really enjoy life. The one thing I do at night that he did with each of his children, is I ask my 5 1/2 year old son the best part of his day and the worst part and I thank Randy for such a wonderfule way to communicate with my son.
God Bless you Randy and your family.
God promised a safe landing,
not a smooth flight; Randy has landed.
DonJones
I read Randy's book and was deeply touched by all he said and what he taught all of us. I, too have battled cancer (twice) in my life and while not pancreatic, it was rough and having experienced it, I have learned even more how precious life is. While reading Randy's book, I thought of what a great lesson his book would be for my three grown sons and when I turned the last page, I vowed I would buy the book and send it to all three of my sons to read. I will do so tomorrow and pray that they will be touched as I was and become even better men from Randy's words of how to live life. While Randy made it a point of not divulging his spiritual beliefs, we all can rest assured he was welcomed into eternal rest by our Lord Jesus Christ today. We should all honor him by making the best of our lives in the ways he has shown us. God Bless you Randy. We are all so sorry for your loss, Jai and family.
I have no words but I cried. I havent watched the video yet, saved it for later, possibly this weekend I kep thinking and I miss him. May hsi soul rest in peace and my support to his family. Please go to pancreatic cancer action network and write a letter to your senator, work for Randy's cause.
my deepest sorrow for randys wife and children. what an amazing person! they are a very lucky family to hae someone so special in their lives. I have his book I've read it several times . I hope that seeing him on tv and reading his book will change many lives and how people live their lives.god bless his family. heaven just recieved a very special angel today!
As a fellow educator, it has truly been an honor and inspiration to follow and enjoy someone make the kind of impact on others that truly matters. Randy saw his students, and others who had the pleasure of crossing his path, as fellow HUMAN BEINGS. He put himself on the level of others sending the message that YOU matter and YOU are in control of what REALLY matters in your life while we are here on Earth. Thank you, Randy! You will live forever in our hearts. We will meet you again when we go home.
I came across the you tube video soon after it was released and thought WOW, what a wonderful man.
I too have watched and read his journey since then hoping it went on for years. When I did not see any postings I too thought something tragic was coming. When I saw the announcement I wept for his own loss of life, his family and for myself who felt like I had lost a father figure. As a nurse I have never seen anyone who was so inspiring to those with terminal illnesses as well as the millions who will learn to live a better life. Read the book, I have read it several times including to my children especially about childhood dreams etc. I know what I will be giving out as gifts this Christmas. Once the intense sadness leaves us I believe we will only feel happiness and gratitude to have known of Randy.
Kerri Harris
Hi Ian,
I'm from your Harvard orbit. I have also been watching this story with my heart in my throat because my father died on pancreatic cancer 13 years ago. It is such a swift disease. Randy Pausch overcame so much by living as long as he did, and giving his family that time. What an inspiration he was. God bless the family.
Kathleen Burkhalter
I had just finished reading Randy's book on Thursday night, wondering how he was doing. So when I happened to turn on the news and learn of his death yesterday, I was very saddened and kept thinking about Jai, Dylan, Logan, Chloe and his mother and sister facing the loss. I send my heartfelt thoughts and prayers for support and peace to you all at this very difficult time. Thanks for allowing Randy to share his wisdom, humor and insights with so many, especially when your remaining time with him was limited. He truly followed his dreams until the end. God bless you, Randy, and may you be at peace.
I first heard of Randy Pausch as my own husband lay in a hospital battling pancreatic cancer. In less than four months after diagnosis, my soulmate was gone. Randy brought awareness to this absolutely devastating disease. He spoke for my husband, my children, and for me. Now it is time for Randy to rest. He fought the good fight and we are grateful beyond words.
Rest in peace, Randy. Tom's been waiting for you.
I just watched The Last Lecture on Youtube. Professor Pausch has impressed me more than almost anyone I've ever known. A very brave soul. Take note people! The world has lost greatness! My heart goes out to his beautiful family...Joan H.
Ever since I saw Professor Pausch's last lecture (and then read the book) I have not stopped thinking about or praying for him, his family, and our world. It's so unfair that he had to leave. He is my hero as is Jai. His life was way too short but what great things he did with the time he had !! He and all that he stood for will not be forgotten. Because of him I am facing my "brick walls" instead of running from them. He is an angel now guarding his wife and beautiful children and hopefully the world. And Jai, a special thanks to you for sharing him with us over the past 10 months. I'm sure that wasn't easy.
God Bless you, Chloe, Dylan and Logan.
I have been following Randy's story from the beginning. I have lost 2 dear friends in the last 2 years to this dreaded disease. Randy has touched all us. I feel as if I lost a brother. We can only pray, the impact of his story has touched the hearts of the right people who can help with the funding to find a cure. How many more brothers do we have to lose before the politicians will admit pancreatic cancer is of epidemic portions? Randy, you reached for the stars, God bless you! You were the voice for the people! You gave me athe inspiration to help others, although I could not donate my pancreas, I donated my kidney to a 40 year old man with 3 children. I was determinde to save a life, and to spare another young family from having to live the heartache of losing a husband, father, son & brother. I pray you rest in peace, and I know God and your fellow man will look after your beautiful family.
I have just recently had a chance to watch the video of his last lecture. And with that have watch every interview I could find on line. I would like to thank Google for having a memorium on their home page- it made me FINALLY watch this lecture. Randy is and will always be a great man. I work in the medical field- I see my patients come in with life ending illnesses. I can say that there are people who handle death with the dignity that he did- and for having known them I am a better person. The lessons we can learn from Randy is that life is fun, life is ours to live and we need to do so as well as we can. I have not read his book yet but I will be getting it the first chance I get and then passing it on to who ever will read it. My thoughts and prayers go to his family. He is a great man who was taken way before his time. To his family-THANK YOU very much for shareing with the world his last months.
An explosion in the galaxy creates a new world, so does the death of Prof. Randy P. May God give strength to his family. O M Mathews, Virginia Beach.
My deepest sympathy to Randy's family and friends. As a fellow educator, I was so inspired by the lesson he taught all of us. He reminded me of Morrie from Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom. My favoite line from his book/lecture was "Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want." WOW...I love the powerful message of those simple but eloquent words from Randy. I will be sharing many of Randy's words with my students in September. Life will go on for Randy's family, friends, etc., but his impact will be with all of us for eternity. I thank him for sharing his life with so many! God bless you Randy, thank you, and I'm sure you're fulfilling your dreams in heaven.
Thank you, Ian, for your tribute to one of the most remarkable human beings. The sadness, now, is almost overwhelming; but I'm very grateful for Randy and his video. Please give my condolences to his wonderful family.
Jacqui Varma
What an inspirational man! He touched SO many people, his spirit will live on in us all. My deepest sympathy to the family.
My heartfelt sympathy to you Jai and your children on the loss of this amazingly inspirational, brave yet loving, sensitive human being who touched so many of us with his courage, warmth and incredibley positive attitude. I too have had Cancer and have thus far survived. I so admire your husband and hope that his strength somehow has passed on to you and your family. May God bless you and keep you safe and secure for many years to come. Have a happy life. I am sure Randy wanted that for you.
With Deepest Condolences,
Cynthia
I just heard of Randy's passing,,,,and also just learned yesterday that my best friend has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer...it has mestasized to her lymph nodes....the dr didn't go into a lot of detail yesterday,,,except to say she will need chemo...she is recouping from whipple surgery...I intend to buy her Randy's book,,,and he was a wonderful, wonderful person....though i did not meet him personally.......we are lucky we were able to be allowed into this man's world....what a blessing we recieved from him............Thank You Randy,,,,,,,,,,,,Donna
"He is Just Away"
"I cannot say, and I will not say
That he is dead ~ He is just away!
With a cheery smile,
and a wave of the hand,
He has wandered into an unknown land,
And left us dreaming how very fair
It needs must be, since he lingers there;
And you ~ O you, who the wildest yearn
For the old-time step and the glad return,
Think of him faring on, as dear
In the love of there as the love of here;
Think of him as the same, I say;
He is not dead ~ He is just away!"
By JAMES WHITCOMB RILEY
I believe this poem describes Randy's desire to explore the unknown.
Jai, may you and the children cherish all the magical moments you shared with Randy. I know you'll always remember his abiding love for each and every one of you. What a legacy he has left for you and for us (friends and strangers)!! Until we meet with him again ... keep living, enjoy every moment and achieve your dreams as he would say.
excelente
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