David McCallum, ‘NCIS’ Star, Dead At 90

etcanada.com:

The actor was also known for his roles in ‘The Man From U.N.C.L.E.’ and ‘The Great Escape.’ David McCallum has died. The actor, best known for his role as Ducky on NCIS, died on Monday of natural causes while surrounded by family at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

He was 90. “He was the kindest, coolest, most patient and loving father,” McCallum’s son, Peter McCallum, said in a statement. “He always put family before self.

He looked forward to any chance to connect with his grandchildren, and had a unique bond with each of them. He and his youngest grandson, Whit, 9, could often be found in the corner of a room at family parties having deep philosophical conversations.” “He was a true renaissance man — he was fascinated by science and culture and would turn those passions into knowledge,” he continued. “For example, he was capable of conducting a symphony orchestra and (if needed) could actually perform an autopsy, based on his decades-long studies for his role on NCIS.” He concluded, “After returning from the hospital to their apartment, I asked my mother if she was OK before she went to sleep.

Her answer was simply, ‘Yes. But I do wish we had had a chance to grow old together.’ She is 79, and dad just turned 90. The honesty in that emotion shows how vibrant their beautiful relationship and daily lives were, and that somehow, even at 90, Daddy never grew old.” The previously announced 20th anniversary NCIS marathon will now include an “In memoriam” card in remembrance of McCallum.