The founder of Magic Castle, Milt Larsen, has passed away in his sleep at 92.
Milt co-founded the infamous private club for magicians, Magic Castle, located in Hollywood, Los Angeles.
According to his family, Milt had passed away in his sleep on Sunday night (May 28), with ABC7 reporting that he died from natural causes.
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A statement issued by the chair of the board of directors for the Castle’s Academy of Magical Arts reads: “It is with heavy hearts that the Academy of Magical Arts shares the sad news that Magic Castle founder Milt Larsen has passed away.
“For decades, he brought magic to so many lives, and his legacy will continue to do so. We will miss him tremendously.”
(Image: WireImage)
He founded the Magic Castle in 1963 with his brother, William Larsen Jr., and William’s wife, Irene.
The Larsen family has operated the upscale club for decades, renting a gothic home on 7001 Franklin Avenue from owner Thomas O. Glover and turning it into an exclusive clubhouse for magicians.
Milt and his late brother were also honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006.
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(Image: Getty Images)
He was also a magician himself, and throughout his career, which spanned several decades, he became a writer for TV game shows, including Truth or Consequences.
After news of his death broke, heartfelt tributes were left online.
His wife Arlene paid tribute to her husband on Monday (May 29), penning: “My beloved husband, Milt, passed away peacefully in his sleep after 92 magical years. I was fortunate enough to have spoken to him right before his went to bed, and his was in great spirits.”
(Image: WireImage)
Adding: “He led an incredible life, and I want to especially thank Randy and Kristy Pitchford for making Milt’s last year so special for him.
“In the coming days and weeks, there will doubtless be opportunities for us all to celebrate Milt’s life. In the meantime, I ask for some time to grieve in private and for no gifts or flowers to be sent to our home. Thank you all for your love and suppose. Milt will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
