“Ghostbusters” actor and director Harold Ramis died today in Chicago at the age of 69-years-old. Ramis was surrounded by family when he passed away from a disease that swells blood vessels, according to a report from the Chicago Tribune .

Comedian Harold Ramis was famous for writing and directing films “Ghostbusters,” “Caddy Shack,” “Animal House,” and “Groundhog Day.” Ramis has inspired many of today’s comedians and actors.

“It was Harold who acted out and gave me the inspiration for the character of Clark Griswold. I was really copying Harold’s impression of Clark,” Chevy Chase said today.

Ramis was most famous for being Dr. Egon Spengler on “Ghostbusters” but his acting career didn’t take off like it did for actors Bill Murray and Dan Akroyd. He realized his real calling was off-screen, writing and directing films. Ramis helped Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd, Chevy Chase, Billy Crystal, Michael Keaton, Robert De Niro and many other actors become the stars that they are today. Ramis’ final film was a biblical comedy called “Year One.” Released in 2009, it starred Jack Black and Michael Cera.

Ramis is survived by his wife, Erica; two sons Julian and Daniel; daughter Violet; and two grandchildren.

“May he now get the answers he was always seeking,” Dan Akroid said.

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