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The Norwegian Royal Family has been hit with a devastating loss two days after the funeral of the late monarch, King Harald.
On Friday, September 11, the royal family shared with "great sorrow" that Princess Astrid, the last surviving child of King Olav V and King Harald's older sister, has passed away.
Announcing the heartbreaking news, the official Instagram account of the royal family shared a black-and-white photograph of King Haakon's aunt.
"His Majesty the King has received with great sorrow the news that Princess Astrid has passed away. The princess fell asleep today, Friday 11, September, 94 years old," the caption of the post read.
Princess Astrid's last appearance
Princess Astrid's last public appearance was earlier this week on Wednesday, September 9, at the state funeral of her brother, King Harald V.
The Princess' family breaks silence on her death
Her immediate family also shared a statement of their own following her passing.
"Dear mother, dear Princess Astrid Thank you for being the best mother we could have. Throughout your life you were there for us – with love and wisdom, warmth and good humor. You were there for grandfather King Olav and uncle King Harald – present, loyal and dutiful," the statement noted.
It continued, "And in addition – for those who needed a little extra care – you always showed genuine care. In our grief, we stand together in gratitude. Thank you for all the good memories. You will always have a big place in our hearts." It was signed from her children, Cathrine, Benedikte, Alexander, Elisabeth, and Carl-Christian Ferner, and their families.
Princess Astrid's health prior to her passing
Princess Astrid had been was hospitalised on March 27, after "being ill for a period of time,"according to Se og Hør.
She recovered from the bout of pneumonia, but in May, was hospitalised again due to heart failure and had a temporary pacemaker inserted. She was discharged sometime over the summer.
