Retired Navy SEAL, 'Survivor' Contestant Rudy Boesch Dies At 91

Survivor contestant Rudy Boesch passed away this Friday (November 1) after a long fight with Alzheimer’s disease, PEOPLE confirmed over the weekend. He was 91.

Boesch, a Navy Seal veteran, was one of the first and oldest competitors to appear on Survivor when it debuted in 2000. The star, who was 72 at the time of the competition, finished third in the show’s inaugural season after losing the immunity challenge. Despite his elimination, Boesch was considered such a favoritethat he was invited to compete again on its eighth season, Survivor: All Stars.

Before Survivor, Boesch had served in the United Sates Navy following World War II in 1945 and was selected as one of the first SEALs, becoming Chief of the Boat in 1962. After two combat deployments in Vietnam, he earned the Bronze Star for his heroism and completed 45 years of continuous service before retiring in 1990 as a Master Chief Petty Officer.

In light of the devastating news, Boesch’s fellow Survivor costars have taken to social media to express their condolences in his memory. “Ours was an interesting bond, Dear Rudy! You and I helped open minds and undermine predjudces [sic]. While your time here has passed, you will remain loved and iconic, dear friend!” Survivor ally Richard Hatch tweeted. Rob Mariano, aka "Boston Rob" added: “We lost an original OG @survivorcbs legend... Rudy was always very nice to me.I feel fortunate to have known him and played the game of with him #SurvivorAllStars Our Sincere condolences to his Family. Rest In Peace Rudy.”

Boesch is survived by his wife, Marjorie Thomas, and their three children. As yet, Boesch’s funeral arrangements have not been made public.

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