Dom DeLuise, comedian and beloved funny man, passed away last night at age 75, after a long battle with prostate cancer. His son, Michael DeLuise confirmed his passing to reporters and informed them that he died in his sleep, surrounded by family in Santa Monica, California.

It’s pretty rough to mourn such a robust and funny man. The New York born DeLuise was best known for his roles in “Cannonball Run” and the sequel, as well as his supporting roles in the Mel Brooks’ classics “Blazing Saddles” and “Robin Hood: Men in Tights”. The comedian was a force in the 70′s and 80′s, and eventually became known for his prowess in the kitchen, with his endorsements of Ziploc and his own cooking programs and cook books. He always seemed to be enjoying life and those around him, even when he was doing a simple interview. And when word of his death hit Hollywood, his one time parter in crime Burt Reynolds had this to say, “Dom always made everyone feel better when he was around,” Reynolds said. “I never heard him say an unkind word about anyone. I will miss him very much.”

DeLuise got his start as a regular on “The Dean Martin Show”, playing Dominick the Great. He then made his mark on the big screen and quickly became a comedic fixture in the 1970′s. His gift was his jovial touch to almost any scene. Here is his first performance with Dean Martin.

Dom DeLuise is survived by his wife and his three sons, who followed their father into his line of work, entertaining people. DeLuise, a man who exemplified how to truly live life big without the normal tacky excesses that come with Hollywood, will be fondly remembered. EW compiled a nice clip tribute of the funny that was DeLuise. A world without DeLuise and Bea Arthur is one missing a booming laughter. And I am now afraid of who will be the next one to join this comedy duo up in the theater in the sky.