Legendary Disney Imagineer Marty Sklar passed away in his Hollywood Hills home on Thursday. He was 83.

Over a career that spanned 54 years, Sklar worked closely with Disney founder Walt Disney, helping him to shape and realize his creative vision and was integral to the development of Disney's theme parks.

“Everything about Marty was legendary — his achievements, his spirit, his career,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “He embodied the very best of Disney, from his bold originality to his joyful optimism and relentless drive for excellence. He was also a powerful connection to Walt himself. No one was more passionate about Disney than Marty and we’ll miss his enthusiasm, his grace and his indomitable spirit.”