Patrick Swayze: 1952-2009 RIP

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Last year, Patrick Swayze was diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer. Survival rates for this form of cancer are poor, and despite a valiant fight, Swayze lost his battle passing away yesterday at the age of 57.  He continued to work, starring in an A&E Television series called "The Beast" which ran through June of this year.

I think the first movie that I ever saw that featured Swayze was "Red Dawn," a film in which the Soviet Union had invaded the USA.  That film followed his appearance in "Uncommon Valor" and Swayze seemed poised to be an action movie star.  He gained worldwide popularity in 1987 when he appeared in the romantic film "Dirty Dancing" with Jennifer Gray, who coincidentally also appeared in "Red Dawn."  As a side note, "Dirty Dancing" is one of Mrs. Dickster's favorite movies.  His biggest hit came in 1990 in another romance, when he starred with Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg in "Ghost."

While my movie tastes tend to lean towards action and juvenile comedy (I am a guy after all), I must confess that I did enjoy Swayze's performances in "Dirty Dancing" and "Ghost."  They were great "date" movies. 

Patrick, may you rest in peace, and I wish comfort to your wife and family.  In what could be considered a bonus Music Monday, a day later, I have embedded Swayze singing his hit song "She's Like the Wind."

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