Bil Keane, creator, of the long-running comic "Family Circus," which has run in newspapers since 1960, died November 8, 2011, in Paradise Valley, Arizona. He was 89.
According to news reports, the cause was congestive heart failure.
Loosely inspired by Keane's own family, "Family Circus" depicts the lighthearted adventures of youngsters Billy, Jeffy, Dolly, P.J. and their parents.
It first appeared in 19 newspapers in February of 1960.
Today is seen in about 1,500 papers worldwide.
Although primarily a print endeavor, "Family Circus" also inspired television specials, including A Family Circus Easter, A Family Circus Christmas and A Special Valentine with the Family Circus.
More about Keane's life and his work is available at: