It must happen with every generation that the icons and heroes of one’s youth (or younger years) die.  Even though we’re all perfectly aware that no one goes on forever, each announcement is a shock.  I’m guessing that in their later years, the actors and actresses slow down, and not as many acting roles come their way.  Poor health might also keep the spotlight from continuing to shine on them, so they fade from view.  Then comes the press release that they’re gone.  Each time it happens, we feel the loss of another cultural touchstone.

This time we lost Peter Falk, so famous as Columbo.  My condolences to Mr. Falk’s family.