His family revealed the heartbreaking news: he passed away peacefully at home after battling a long illness. His daughter shared the news on Instagram, honoring his legacy with a poignant mix of humor and love. “He excelled in every creative discipline imaginable,” she wrote, adding that her father would have found humor in the mention of his infamous commercials. “That joke would’ve made him laugh.”
Friends, fellow artists, and adoring fans remember him as a gifted entertainer who brought joy to millions—and as a man deeply loved by his family and even his cherished dogs. His daughter and wife mourn his loss, but they also celebrate a life lived to its fullest, filled with art, humor, and an unwavering dedication to making people smile
While he found fame in acting, his first love was painting. Trained at the Rhode Island School of Design, he planned to pursue a career in fine arts before his talent for entertainment took center stage. Even as his career flourished, he continued to paint and create, leaving behind works that his friends and family will treasure forever.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, he grew up in Ohio and Connecticut before discovering his passion for art. His journey took him from a painter’s studio to the bright lights of Hollywood, always guided by an unshakable commitment to his craft.
He is survived by his wife of more than 40 years, Wendy Haas, and his daughter, Maggie, who carries forward his legacy of creativity. While the world mourns his passing, his humor, art, and the joy he spread remain an enduring gift to those who loved and admired him.
