RIP Gene Wilder

Just saw the news.  Sad.  I’m sure this will receive much coverage and many stories over the next few days.  For my generation, he was a staple.  Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, Silver Streak, Stir Crazy, and of course the tripped out children’s favorite Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.  With no need for bizarre makeup or quirky special effects, Wilder pulled off the eccentric in a way Depp couldn’t reach.  That was Wilder’s gift.  On one hand, he had a certain respectable quality about him, that fellow you wanted to be friends with.  On the other, he had just that certain amount of ‘crazy eyed thousand watt stare’ that reminded you of Renfield.  He will be missed.  God embrace him in Your loving arms, bring peace to his loved ones and the millions of fans who he touched through the years, and let perpetual light shine upon him.