Sam Simon, co-creator of 'The Simpsons,' dies at 59

Sam Simon, best known as one of the creators of "The Simpsons" show, died Sunday after a battle with colon cancer. He was 59.

"It is with much sadness that we must let you know that Sam Simon has passed over," the Sam Simon Foundation, which Simon funded, posted on Facebook Monday. "We all miss him, and in his honor, we will continue bringing his vision to light through our work."

In addition to his show, Simon was known as an avid animal lover and philanthropist. The foundation in his name trains rescue dogs to help the disabled. He also started a vegan food bank in California called Feeding Families.

Simon had already announced plans to give his $100 million fortune to charity, ABC News reports.

He was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer in 2011 and spoke openly about his battle, documenting it online. He often put a touch of humor in his post and also thanked the medical professionals who helped him.

Simon's animated adult comedy show has been on the air continuously since 1989. He previously wrote for "Taxi," "Cheers" and "The Tracey Ullman Show."

Actors and others involved in the show, as well as fans and loved ones, took to social media to honor and remember Simon.

PETA president Ingrid Newkirk released a statement to ABC News:

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.