Sam Simon, one of the co-creators of the long running cartoon "The Simpsons", passed away at 59 years old on Sunday after battling colorectal cancer.

His foundation, "Sam Simon Foundation" announced the sad news on its official Facebook page. "It is with much sadness that we must let you know that Sam Simon has passed over," the post wrote. The post expressed how the people in his foundation miss him and promised that they will continue to "bring his vision to light, in his honor," and added that they "take comfort in knowing how many greetings he is receiving across that Rainbow Bridge. We love you Sam!"

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Al Jean, the show runner for "The Simpsons" took to Twitter to also confirm the news and express his condolences. Jean said, "A great man; I owe him everything." He also told E! News that Simon was a great humanitarian and a genius in private and public ways. He revealed that he owes him "more than can be repaid," but will do his best to "help every animal" he can.

Simon was one of the people who helped the Sam Simon Foundation financially. The foundation aims to save dogs and provide them with the medical help they need. He once told NBC News that he will be giving his fortune away to every animal organization in need.

He said that his passion for animals and his determination to fight against animal abuse is due to his knowledge that they are creatures who can think and feel, but sadly cannot speak for themselves. He added that he feels responsible "to speak for those who can't speak for themselves."

Simon is not just known for his work on The Simpsons, the 9-time Emmy winner has worked on so many TV productions including producing the shows Cheers, The George Carlin Show, The Tracey Ullman Show and Taxi.

He developed The Simpsons in 1989 along with James L. Brooks and Matt Groening. While he departed in 1993, he stayed and served as the executive producer.

TagsSam Simon, Sam Simon Dies, The Simpsons