Oscar-winning producer Ronald Schwary died last Thursday at the age of 76.
His sons Neil and Brian announced his passing.
Neil said in a statement: “Over the years, he fought hard to be the best version of himself that he could be, still constantly joking and laughing no matter how hard the day was.
“His zest for life still remained through the trials and tribulations of his disease.”
Ronald Schwary and Robert Redford both received Oscars for the film Ordinary People (Image: Bettmann Archive)
The American director is best known for producing the 1980 drama Ordinary People.
Ronald also worked on other acclaimed films including A Soldier’s Story, Absence of Malice and Scent of a Woman.
The producer retired in 2015 after struggling with a rare neurological autonomic disorder.
Alongside his burgeoning film career, he also was an executive producer on a number of TV shows including 1987’s Tour of Duty, Fling, and Medium, a programme which ran from 2005-2011.
Following the release of Ordinary People – an American drama film that marked the directorial debut of actor Robert Redford, Ronald picked up an Academy Award for Best Picture.
Speaking about the film during his acceptance speech at the glitzy bash, he said: “As far back as 4 1/2 years ago, when Robert Redford acquired the novel, he strongly believed that this could be a very special film.
The American producer and director passed away last Thursday, aged 76 (Image: Getty Images)
“This belief, along with his sensitive direction, was the inspiration behind the project. I want to thank Bob for giving me the opportunity to produce this picture, and I want to say he must come up here and share this with me. Bob, wherever you are, come on up.”
Ronald is survived by his brothers- Mitchell Jr., Dennis and Gary – his sister Carol, sons Neil and Brian and his grandson, Mars.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
