Drake Hogestynthe long time Days of our lives star who played John Black has died. He was 79.

Hogestyn, who was one day shy of his 71st birthday when he died on Saturday, September 28, was battling pancreatic cancer, according to a statement from his family shared by the Days of our lives social media accounts.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement read. “He was hit with the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he rose to the challenge with incredible strength and determination. After fighting an incredible battle, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.”

“He was the most wonderful husband, father, dad and actor,” it continues. “He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the best cast, crew and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the days of our lives.”

To dawn Executive producer Ken Corday noted in a statement to Soap Opera Digest: “This is a very difficult issue for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not enough words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, both personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unparalleled.”

Hogestyn first appeared on Days of our lives in 1986, and went on to play Black in more than 4,200 episodes of the beloved soap opera over nearly four decades. His character’s favorite romance with Marlena Evans, played by Deider Hallthe screen couple won a Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005.

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He also appeared in other projects during his career, including the ’80s series Seven brides for seven brothers – which marked his first major TV role – Overworldand TV movies Generation, Beverly Hills Cowgirl Blues, One stormy night And Nocturnal sins.

Several from Hogestyn Days of our lives costars took to social media to mourn his death, including Allison Sweeneywho wrote on Instagram: “Drake was an incredible man, he was funny, generous and thoughtful. He cared about every scene, every person. He loved Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family, they meant the world to him. He was such a big part of my life at Days. I will miss him terribly and cherish every story, every joke and every hug.”