Losing Legends: A Look Back At Lives Lost in 2016

11. Gene Wilder

Slate

Renowned comedic actor Gene Wilder left the world in August of 2016 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.  Wilder was an incredible personality, shining in his roles as Willy Wonka and the Waco Kid (Blazing Saddles). After taking a break from a acting, Wilder went on to pen several short stories and a memoir.  According to Wilder’s family, he passed away while listening to Ella Fitzgerald’s version of “Over the Rainbow.”