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Fans Gathered At Leonard Nimoy's Hollywood Star Discuss How 'Star Trek' Changed Their Lives

HOLLYWOOD (CBSLA.com) — Leonard Nimoy, famous for his iconic role as "Mr. Spock" in the hit TV series "Star Trek," died Friday.

Fans gathered at his Hollywood star say his memory will live on. Many left flowers and notes for the science-fiction icon who they say made them feel it was OK to be different.

The 83-year-old died at his Bel Air home of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Friday night, the lights were dimmed outside the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood in the actor's honor.

Nimoy will always be remembered for the half-human/half-Vulcan character who debuted in the original "Star Trek" series nearly 50 years ago.

"Leonard Nimoy and his role as 'Spock' defined 'Star Trek,'" said David Luong, president of the L.A. Star Trek Club. He says the actor had a real impact on his life and the lives of countless fans.

"Without Leonard Nimoy there wouldn't be 'Star Trek,' there wouldn't be that thing that binds me and my friends together. Even with him gone, he's left such a great legacy."

William Shatner, who played "Captain Kirk" on "Star Trek," once said in an interview that he learned to deeply admire Nimoy: "I love him...We may not have been in love from the very beginning, but as time went on I saw the beauty of the man and his morality."

Zachary Quinto, who portrayed the younger "Spock" in movies, posted on Twitter Friday, "My heart is broken. I love you profoundly my dear friend."

Nimoy was also a director, accomplished photographer, and author.

But many know him best for his alter ego and his famous two-fingered Vulcan salute.

Nimoy once said, "I'm still amazed at the effect 'Star Trek' has had on this culture. You walk down the street and people wave at you and do that [does Vulcan salute] and say 'Hi, Spock.'"

President Obama also released a message saying that he loved "Spock" and will miss Nimoy dearly. He mentioned that when he first met the actor, years ago, he greeted him with the Vulcan salute.

Earlier this week, Nimoy tweeted his final public words: "A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. LLAP."

He ended the message with his famous "Star Trek" line, "Live long and prosper."

And many pointed out Friday that's exactly what Nimoy did.

He's survived by his wife and two children.

The L.A. Star Trek Club plans to get together Saturday to mourn Nimoy's death. CBS2/KCAL9 will provide details about the gathering as soon as they're made available.

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