In Memoriam — Paul Newman: 1925-2008

Actor, racer, humanitarian and entrepreneur Paul Leonard Newman is dead at 83.

Having played such iconic roles such as Fast Eddie Nelson, Cool Hand Luke, Butch Cassidy and many others, Newman's acting career spanned more than 50 years.

Newman's involvement in racing circles lasted nearly as long. For more than 25 years, he partnered with Carl Hass in the ownership of numerous Can-Am and Indy racing teams.

Newman was a talented driver as well, winning countless races in various national and international classes. At age 70, Newman became the oldest driver to place in a professionally sanctioned auto race when his team took third in the 1995 running of the 24 Hours at Daytona.

In August, Newman took to the track one last time in a GT1-spec Chevrolet Corvette at Lime Rock Park in Connecticut.

Newman died in his home near Westport, Conn., some 18 months after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. In addition to his wife, Newman is survived by daughters Susan, Stephanie, Nell, Melissa and Clea; two grandchildren; and his brother Arthur.

[Photo Credit: prorallypix, used under Creative Commons 2.0 license]