Rudy Boesch,one of the very firstSurvivorcontestants, has died.
Boesch died on Friday night from complications from Alzheimers disease, PEOPLE confirmed.
He made it to the finals and finished in third place.
Credit: Jason Merritt/Getty Images
Ours was an interesting bond, Dear Rudy!
Boeschs closestSurvivorally Richard Hatch, who won the first season, tweeted.
You and I helped open minds and undermine predjudces [sic].
While your time here has passed, you will remain loved and iconic, dear friend!
He was actually one of the very first Navy SEALS, chosen in 1962.
During his service, he earned the Bronze Star for heroic action in the Vietnam War.
He retired from the Navy in 1990 after 45 years of service.
Boesch wed Marjorie Thomas in 1955, and they were married for 53 years until her death in 2008.
He is survived by their three children.
TMZfirst reported this news.
