“Jeopardy!” host, Alex Trebek, passes at age 80
Terrie Trebilcock, a history teacher at Hereford, remembers her time on ‘Jeopardy!’ She remembered Alex Trebek as a “down-to-earth” guy.
In March 2019, Alex Trebek announced to his viewers that he was suffering from pancreatic cancer, but he reassured his fans that it would not mean he would stop hosting the long lasting game show, “Jeopardy!”. Trebek was the host in more than 8,000 episodes of the show and was revered by millions around the world.
On Nov. 8, 2020, it was announced that Alex Trebek had passed away at 80-years-old. The game show’s twitter account broke the news to thousands of viewers across the world. “’Jeopardy!’ is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends. Thank you, Alex.”
Trebek lived his life always educating and supporting others. His show shared knowledge to millions in an entertaining format. He was the longest running host of any game show, and he showed no sign of slowing down. He loved what he did, and it was what he was great at.
“I’ve always enjoyed ‘Jeopardy!’, and ‘It’s Academic’ has been a way for me to be like the contestants I’ve seen on television for years. And ‘Jeopardy!’ is great practice of course,” said Preston Shaver (’21).
Besides hosting his beloved game show, Trebek was an activist and a very charitable man. Trebek obviously was outspoken about the threats of pancreatic cancer, encouraging viewers to donate to the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic research. Trebek also moderated the National Geographic Bee for 25 years, spreading his love for geography and inspiring students to learn about the world.
Trebek was a strong supporter of Veterans and troops around the world. He traveled the world volunteering at military bases and supporting our troops for all they have done for us. This was done through a nonprofit that he supported, the United Service Organization, or the USO.
Alex Trebek also traveled worldwide with the World Vision organization to help support families around the world. World Vision supports families with providing clean water, food, medical help and anything else needed in times of distress. Trebek was an ambassador of World Vision for 25 years. Alex Trebek and his wife Jean Trebek also donated $600,000 to combat homelessness across California.
Alex Trebek had a big heart and will continue to inspire millions across the world through his long-lived game show.
