Astronaut Buzz Aldrin is deeply mourning the loss of his beloved wife, Anca Faur, who passed away at 66 after a brave and valiant battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer, leaving behind a legacy of brilliance and an enduring love story.
The world pauses to reflect on the life and profound loss of Anca Faur, the beloved wife of legendary Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin. At 66, Faur’s passing marks the end of a remarkable journey filled with professional brilliance and a deeply cherished personal connection with one of humanity’s greatest explorers.
A family friend confirmed that Anca Faur succumbed to a rare and aggressive form of cancer, a battle she fought with extraordinary courage and an unwavering positive spirit. Her passing on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, leaves a void not only for her family but also for those who admired her professional accomplishments and her zest for life.
A Valiant Battle Against a Rare Illness
According to Bobby Charles, a close friend of the couple who officiated their wedding, Anca Faur had been battling a “very rare kind of cancer” for “quite some time.” Charles lauded her resilience, stating, “I don’t know that I’ve ever seen a more positive and courageous and loving effort to live and fight for more time.” He noted that even a month before her passing, he remained optimistic due to her incredible spirit, as reported by People.
Despite her valiant fight and extensive efforts to combat the disease, Charles sadly conceded that “nothing” could ultimately be done to treat her “aggressive” cancer successfully. He reflected on the couple’s shared approach to challenges, emphasizing that both Buzz Aldrin and Anca Faur were individuals who, when faced with overwhelming problems, would instinctively ask, “Okay, how do we beat it?” This testament highlights their shared strength and determination, even in the face of the uncontrollable.
A Statement of Profound Loss and Enduring Love
The Faur and Aldrin families first shared the news of her passing on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, via a heartfelt statement posted on Buzz Aldrin’s official Facebook page. The statement revealed that “Dr. Anca Aldrin, wife of astronaut Buzz Aldrin, peacefully passed away last night with her husband and her son, Vlad Ghenciu by her side.”
In a deeply moving addition to the announcement, Buzz Aldrin, 95, shared his personal grief and affection for his late wife. “I am so fortunate to have found and married the love of my life,” Aldrin wrote. “She brought joy to everything we did together. I will miss her dearly.” This poignant tribute underscores the profound bond the couple shared during their years together. The family has respectfully requested privacy during their time of mourning, as seen in the official Facebook statement.
Who Was Anca Faur Aldrin? A Legacy of Brilliance in STEM
Beyond her role as Buzz Aldrin’s wife, Anca Faur was an accomplished individual in her own right, particularly within the scientific and engineering communities. Born and educated in Romania, she pursued advanced studies in the United States, earning a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the prestigious University of Pittsburgh. Her academic research focused on crucial areas like acidity and reaction mechanisms on solid and liquid acid catalysts.
Over nearly two decades, Faur built a distinguished career at the London-based chemical company Johnson Matthey, where she was known as a leader and innovator. Her work significantly contributed to sustainable technology and business management, with a particular emphasis on hydrogen technology and clean energy research. She was not only respected for her technical expertise but also championed women in STEM, actively encouraging young engineers to embrace scientific innovation.
Her leadership extended to prominent roles, including serving as the treasurer for the California Hydrogen Business Council and as Executive Vice President of Buzz Aldrin Ventures LLC. These positions highlight her dedication to advancing clean energy and her significant influence within her field.
The Love Story: Buzz and Anca’s Journey
Buzz Aldrin and Anca Faur’s love story began in December 2017 when they first met at a work event. Their connection blossomed, leading them to start dating in May 2018. The couple exchanged vows on January 20, 2023, a particularly special date as it coincided with Aldrin’s 93rd birthday.
Their wedding was a private and intimate affair, reflective of their desire for a personal celebration. “It was a beautiful day,” Buzz Aldrin told People at the time. “We had decided on a private ceremony, as suitably intimate, just us and the stars in the sky.” Aldrin often spoke of his profound happiness with Faur, remarking that he had “never been happier in my life” and felt “lucky beyond words” to have her by his side.
Family and Enduring Bonds
Before his marriage to Anca Faur, Buzz Aldrin was married three times, sharing children James, Janice, and Andrew with his first wife, Joan Archer. Anca Faur brought her own family into their union, including her son, Vlad Ghenciu, and three cherished granddaughters: Kaia, McCali, and Scarlett. Her presence enriched the lives of all those around her, and her memory will undoubtedly continue to inspire.
The loss of Anca Faur is a poignant moment for Buzz Aldrin and both their families. Her life, marked by intellectual prowess, a courageous spirit, and a deep capacity for love, leaves an indelible legacy that will be remembered and honored.
