Harold Ramis, the director of some of the finest comedies ever committed to celluloid has passed away at his home at the age of 69, surrounded by his family.
According to The Chicago Tribune, Ramis has had health issues since 2010 when he suffered from an infection. His death is believed to be from complications of autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis, a rare disease that involves swelling of the blood vessels. His wife Erica announced the news this afternoon.
While Ramis was known predominately as a director, he has worked sporadically as an actor over the years also; popping up in the likes of Knocked Up, The Last Kiss and, of course, as Dr. Egon Spengler in both Ghostbusters and its sequel.
He’ll probably be best remembered for his work behind the camera, though, having helmed what is widely regarded as the perfect comedy, Groundhog Day. He also directed the first Caddyshack and Analyze This. His last feature film was the Michael Cera/Jack Black flick Year One, while he also directed some episodes of The US Office before becoming ill in 2010.
Rest in Peace to a true legend of comedy.