I don't know how many of you were aware of Randy Pausch, but here's a bit of his back-story. He got a incurable pancreatic cancer diagnosis in September 2006. He had started a lecture series before this, called the "Last Lecture," where various professors and luminaries were invited to give a lecture as if it were their last. Professor Pausch then gave his own for-real last lecture in September, 2007.
He died today at his home in Virginia at the age of 47.
He also wrote a book, called The Last Lecture and appeared on several media outlets as the YouTube phenomenon increased. His evident joy in life brought inspiration to millions.
My warmest condolences to his family and friends, and all the students and faculty at CMU.
The video of the lecture is very long, but worth the watching if you have the time: