The end of an era . . .

The following report was posted on voiceoveruniverse.com

Rick

It is very hard to write these words. My friend, Don LaFontaine, the husband of a most beautiful wife, Nita and the father of three beautiful girls, passed away today at the age of 68. In a quite sudden reversal of the progress he had been making the last few days, Don took ill again and passed away at around 1:50PM this afternoon (9/1/08). Out of respect for Don’s family, more details will be given at a later time. Nita is a wonderful mother and she is being very strong for her children at this moment. You would be proud of her. We need to give her and her family some time to absorb their loss. As for me, thank you very much. There have been so many spiritual warriors who have given everything they have for my best friend. I will miss him very much.

More details to follow...

Paul Pape

Although I'd never had the honor of meeting him in person, Don LaFontaine has had an undeniable influence on me and just about everyone in the voiceover industry. He was a pioneer in the industry and has left an indelible mark.

His body of work is astounding. Over his career, Don LaFontaine recorded nearly 5,000 movie trailers and literally HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of commercials.

Anyone who currently works or wants to work in the Movie Trailer area of the voiceover industry owes a debt of gratitude to this incredible human being.

The interviews that I've heard and the personal anecdotes that I've read, left me with the impression of a warm and generous man of immense talent. He will be forever remembered.

My prayers go out to Mr. LaFontaine's Wife and family in this time of loss and sadness.

Mr. LaFontaine, thank you for blazing the trail that so many of us have chosen to follow.

Rest in peace.