Acclaimed writer, director and actor Harold Ramis, 69, passed away earlier today, from complications of autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis, a rare disease that affects the blood vessels.
He was diagnosed with the disease in 2010.
Ramis is best known for his roles in the comedies Ghostbusters, which he also co-wrote and appeared in with fellow Second City (comedy club) alums Dan Aykroyd and Bill Murray, and Stripes.
His other notable works as a director include 1993 philosophical comedy film Groundhog Day and his directorial debut Caddyshack.
Ramis's last directorial project Year One featured Jack Black and Michael Cera in lead roles.
He is survived by his wife Erica, sons Julian and Daniel, daughter Violet and two grandchildren.
Image: Harold Ramis. By: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images
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