Oscar-winning film producer Ronald Schwary has died.
The filmmaker, best known for making 1980 drama Ordinary People, was 76.
His sad death was announced by his sons Neil and Brian.
Neil said in a statement: "Over the years, he fought hard to be the best version of himself that he could be, still constantly joking and laughing no matter how hard the day was. His zest for life still remained through the trials and tribulations of his disease."
Ronald was forced to retire from the movie industry in 2015 after struggling with a rare neurological autonomic disorder.
But before his career ended, he helped bring some huge movies to life.
As well as Ordinary People, he also worked on A Soldier's Story, Absence of Malice and Scent of a Woman.
When Ronald accepted his Academy Award for Ordinary People, he said: "As far back as 4 1/2 years ago, when Robert Redford acquired the novel, he strongly believed that this could be a very special film.
"This belief, along with his sensitive direction, was the inspiration behind the project. I want to thank Bob for giving me the opportunity to produce this picture, and I want to say he must come up here and share this with me. Bob, wherever you are, come on up."
Ronald once said in an interview that he loved making movies that made people think.
He said: "I like to do films that make you think. My films, you walk out of the theatre and you can actually talk about [them]."
The producer also worked on film Meet Joe Black with Brad Pitt.
His career had begun in 1976 when he worked as associate producer on Shadow of the Hawk.
Ronald also took on various acting roles, working in front of the camera as well as behind it.
He starred in Tootsie, Sabrina, Cops & Robbersons, as well as a few others.
Ronald married Emmy-nominated hair stylist Susan Carol Schwary in 1971, but they later divorced in 1994.
Their sons went on to work in movie production and took on acting roles.
He is also survived by his brothers, Mitchell Jr, Dennis and Gary, his sister Carol and his grandson Mars.
