Bitcoin legend Hal Finney passes away from ALS

On August 28, 2014, the Bitcoin community mourned the loss of one of its most revered pioneers, Hal Finney. He was a renowned cryptographer and the recipient of the first Bitcoin transaction from the cryptocurrency’s enigmatic creator, Satoshi Nakamoto.
 

Hal Finney’s journey with Bitcoin began in its earliest days. As a seasoned cryptographer, Finney saw the potential in Satoshi Nakamoto’s creation and became one of its first supporters. His contributions to the project were invaluable, and his legacy within the community was profound.
 

Finney was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2009. Despite the progressive nature of the illness, he continued to engage with the Bitcoin community and contribute to its growth. His determination and optimism in the face of adversity were an inspiration to many.
 

On that fateful day in August, Finney passed away in Phoenix, Arizona, due to complications from ALS. He was 58 years old. In accordance with his wishes, his body was cryopreserved by the Alcor Life Extension Foundation, reflecting his interest in future technologies and extropianism.