The co-creator of the popular cartoon, Scooby-Doo, Ken Spears has died at the age of 82.
His death comes less than three months after his animation partner, Joe Ruby, also passed away.
Spears reportedly died on Friday after complications related to dementia, TMZ reports.
His son, Kevin noted that Ken will forever be remembered for his wit, story-telling, loyalty to family, and strong work ethics.
Kevin said, “Ken has not only made a lasting impression on his family, but he has touched the lives of many as the co-creator of ‘Scooby-Doo.’ Ken has been a role model for us throughout his life and he will continue to live on in our hearts.”
Spears’ animation partner, Joe Ruby, died of natural causes in August.
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Spears and Ruby, both of whom worked for the famed Hanna-Barbera Productions, also created the popular series “Dynomutt” and “Jabberjaw.” But, undoubtedly they were most famously known for creating ‘Scooby.’
The popular animated series first aired on CBS in 1969 with Ruby and Spears writing the first five episodes then editing and supervising the rest of that inaugural series.
Scooby aired until 1976, but there have been a lot of spin-offs, reboots and movies.
Spears was born on March 12, 1938. He grew up in L.A. and would end up befriending the son of William Hanna. He ultimately got hired at Hanna-Barbera in 1959 as a sound editor. It was during his time there he met Joe and turned a working relationship into a lifelong partnership.
Spears and Ruby supervised CBS’ Saturday morning cartoons line-up in the early 1970s. They were tasked with the same role at ABC.
The duo created their own production company and produced a slew of animated series such as “Superman” and “Alvin and the Chipmunks” among others.
Spears wasn’t limited to just cartoons either. He was also a story consultant for the 1974 TV series, “Planet of the Apes.”
Spears is survived by his two sons, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
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