RIP Stephen J. Cannell

Funeral services were pending today for writer/producer Stephen J. Cannell, the man behind iconic television series such as "The Rockford Files' and "The A-Team.' Cannell died Thursday night September 30th, 2010 at his home in Pasadena from complications of melanoma, according to his family. He was 69.

"Aside from being a legendary television producer and prolific writer, Stephen was also a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a loyal friend,' according to a family statement." Mr. Cannell is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 46 years, Marcia, their three children, Tawnia, Chelsea and Cody, and three grandchildren.Stephen was the pillar of strength within his family and he touched everyone he met. He will be most deeply missed.'

Cannell, who suffered from dyslexia most of his life, wrote hundreds of episodes of dozens of television shows, beginning with "Ironside,' "Columbo' and "Adam-12' in the early 1970s. But he became a force in Hollywood after creating the character of Jim Rockford while writing for a series called "Toma.'

"The Rockford Files,' starring James Garner, ran for 122 episodes. He also created and wrote memorable series including "Baretta,' "The Greatest American Hero,' "Hardcastle and McCormick,' "21 Jump Street,' "The A-Team' and "Wiseguy.'

Stephen J. Cannell appeared in one Euro-western as Jimmy Love in 1993's "Posse" with Mario Van Peebles.