'Groundhog Day' Director Harold Ramis Dead at 69

Groundhog Day director Harold Ramis has died on Monday, at 69 years of age, after suffering complications of autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis, a disease that involves swelling of blood vessels.

Dubbed “The Alchemist of Comedy,” Ramis has enjoyed a career spanning 45 years, in which he wrote, directed and acted in successful comedies like Club Paradise and Analyze This. He also co-produced in films and television series.

“His creativity, compassion, intelligence, humor and spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved him,” Ramis' family said, in a press statement. Ramis has left his wife, two sons and a daughter.

Ramis' most recent work was the film Year One in 2009. He earned many accolades throughout his career, including a BAFTA for best screenplay in 1994 for Groundhog Day.