American Actor Leonard Stone passed away from cancer on Wednesday at 87 just two days before his 88th birthday.

Stone has an extensive list of credits, playing supporting roles in over 120 television shows and 35 films, but he was best known as Violet's father, Sam Beauregarde, in the 1971 classic Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Stone also acted in The Jean Arthur Show, L.A. Law, Lost in Space, M*A*S*H, among others.

The 87-year-old actor was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as George Poppett in the 1959 Broadway musical Redhead, starring Gwen Verdon. He was also in the Tony Nominated cast of Look Homeward, Angel in 1957.

In 2000, Stone was also a winning contestant on the TV game show, The Wheel of Fortune, according to People. He won $4,250 and a trip to Bermuda.

Stone also wrote a children's story about a kangaroo who never grew up. Keepy was published in 2011 on the Kindle and the Nook.

According to TMZ, Stone's family members recount that he loved being an actor and would recite lines anytime anyone asked him to. He is most famously remembered for saying, Violet you're turning Violet, Violet! and I've got a blueberry for a daughter!

His latest role was at the age of 83 in 2006, when he played a minor character in the TV movie Surrender Dorothy. Stone played alongside star Diane Keaton.

Stone is survived by his wife, Carole H. Kleinman, four children and eight grandchildren.

Watch Leonard Stone in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory:

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