Harold Ramis remembered for comedic turns in 'Stripes' and 'Ghostbusters'

Harold Ramis, who died Monday near Chicago, also directed the movie 'Analyze This' starring Robert DeNiro and Billy Crystal.

Comedy actor, director and writer Harold Ramis has died at his suburban Chicago home.

A spokesman for United Talent Agency says Ramis died early Monday morning.

Ramis is best known for his roles in comedies such as "Ghostbusters" and "Stripes."

He co-wrote "Ghostbusters," in which he appeared with fellow Second City alums Dan Aykroyd and Bill Murray. He also co-wrote "National Lampoon's Animal House" and "Meatballs" and directed such films as "Caddyshack" and "Groundhog Day."

More recently, he directed "Analyze This," a movie starring Billy Crystal and Robert DeNiro.

UTA spokesman Chris Day says Ramis had been battling an illness for four years.

Day says Ramis' family was at his side when he died.

Aykroyd is mourning the passing of his friend, whom he had known for years.

In a brief statement, Aykroyd calls Ramis his 'brilliant, gifted, funny, friend, co-writer/performer and teacher." He ends the statement with his hope that Ramis might "now get the answers he was always seeking."