The actor, writer and director died from complications related to autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis, a condition he battled for the past four years. He was 69.
Ramis died Monday morning in his Chicago area home, surrounded by family and friends.
Ramis is likely best known for his acting roles in Ghostbusters andGhostbusters II, both of which he co-wrote. He also co-wroteNational Lampoon’s Animal House, Stripes, Caddyshack andNational Lampoon’s Vacation, directing the latter two films. He co-wrote, produced and directed other comedy classics likeGroundhog Day, Multiplicity and the Billy Crystal–Robert DeNiro films Analyze This and Analyze That. He directed 2005’sThe Ice Harvest, starring John Cusack and Billy Bob Thornton. Most recently he wrote, co-produced and directed 2009’s Year One, starring Jack Black and Michael Cera.