Walter Koenig, best known for playing Pavel Chekov in Star Trek, died of cardiopulmonary arrest, according to his death certificate, as reported by TMZ. Chronic diastolic congestive heart failure was listed as an underlying cause, while acute renal failure was a significant contributing factor. His death had initially been attributed to causes associated with old age.
Koenig died on Oct. 25 at his Los Angeles home, aged 90, with his daughter and niece by his side. The certificate states that he was cremated on Oct. 30 and that his remains were taken to Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where his son Andrew was laid to rest in 2010.
Koenig joined the cast of Star Trek: The Original Series in its second season and played Chekov in the series and seven films. He also wrote the animated series episode “The Infinite Vulcan” and appeared in Star Trek: Renegades, a crowdfunded project released in 2015.
George Takei, who played Sulu, remembered Koenig as a close friend. Takei said they had known each other for nearly six decades and described Koenig as a writer, teacher and loyal friend. William Shatner also paid tribute, recalling Koenig’s connection with Star Trek fans and his preference for spending time with them at conventions.
Sources: Comic Book Resources.