Co-Creator Of Simpsons Passes

In 1989 Sam Simon developed “The Simpsons” with Matt Groening and James L. Brooks. Yesterday, he passed of colorectal cancer at his home in Los Angeles. The Emmy winner also had a hand in "The Tracy Ullman Show," “Taxi,” “Cheers” and “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show” before The animated Simpsons.

Variety reports that after being diagnosed with cancer in 2012 he became a philanthropist. His Sam Simon Foundation rescued and trained dogs to help people who are disabled, including veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He funded a traveling animal surgery clinic assisting the ailing pets of those who otherwise could not afford medical attention for them and provided vegan food for hungry humans.

He also supported PETA, Save the Children; and global marine conservation organization the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, which named one of its vessels after him.

After being diagnosed with colon cancer, Simon started buying zoos and circuses to free animals. He gave nearly all his “Simpsons” royalties to charity. Simon left the earth better for his having been here, and that says a lot.

Sam Simon, gone at 59