Gil Gerard, the beloved actor who became a household name through his role in the 1979 sci-fi classic, Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, has passed away at the age of 82. News of his death was shared by his wife, Janet Gerard, through a heartfelt social media announcement.

“This morning, my soulmate Gil lost his battle with a rare and aggressively aggressive form of cancer,” Janet wrote. “From the time we realized something was amiss to his passing was a matter of days. Even if we had endless years together, it would never have been enough. Cherish your loved ones and hold them close.”

Janet revealed that she was by his side when he peacefully passed away on Tuesday, December 16, while receiving hospice care. She also shared a poignant message from Gil, which he had requested she post after his passing.

“If you are reading this, then Janet has posted it as I asked her to,” Gil’s message began. “My life has been an amazing journey. The opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve met, and the love I have given and received have made my 82 years on this planet deeply satisfying.”

“If you are reading this, then Janet has posted it as I asked her to,” he said. “My life has been an amazing journey. The opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve met and the love I have given and received have made my 82 years on the planet deeply satisfying.”

His statement continued, “My journey has taken me from Arkansas to New York to Los Angeles, and finally, to my home in North Georgia with my amazing wife, Janet, of 18 years. It’s been a great ride, but inevitably one that comes to a close as mine has. Don’t waste your time on anything that doesn’t thrill you or bring you love. See you out somewhere in the cosmos.”

Gil is best known for starring as Captain Buck Rogers in the 1979 television series Buck Rogers in the 25th Century. Gil’s iconic character was a 20th century astronaut who wakes up after 500 years of suspended slumber to emerge as Earth’s greatest hero. The series ran for two seasons until 1981.

Born in 1943 in Little Rock, Arkansas, Gil later moved to New York City in 1969 where he worked as a cab driver at night. According to The Hollywood Reporter, one patron arranged for Gil to audition for a role in Arthur Hiller’s movie Love Story, in which he appeared as an extra, sparking a decades-long career in television and film.

Gil went on to appear in Airport ’77, Hooch, Final Notice, and more. He also appeared in several series, including Days of our Lives, Little House on the Prairie, Drop Dead Diva and Transformers: Robots in Disguise.

His most recent projects include the 2016 comedy The Nice Guys, starring Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe, and Space Captain and Callista.

Gil is survived by his son, who he shares with his ex-wife and Hotel actress Connie Sellecca, who he was married to from 1979 to 1987.

He is also survived by Janet, his wife of 18 years.