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Joe Ruby, who created the character of Scooby Doo for Hanna-Barbera with his partner Ken Spears, has died aged 87.

Ruby and Spears wrote the first five episodes of the initial season in 1969, and then story edited the rest of that year. The pair created various series including The Barkleys and The Houndcats, and oversaw the CBS Saturday morning cartoons under Fred Silverman. Their own production company Ruby-Spears was responsible for Thundarr the Barbarian, Mister T, Superman and Alvin and the Chipmunks.

“Joe Ruby made Saturday mornings special for so many children, including myself,” Sam Register, President, Warner Bros. Animation and Blue Ribbon Content said in a statement. “He was one of the most prolific creators in our industry who gifted us some of animation’s most treasured characters and it was a thrill to host him at our studio. Scooby-Doo has been a beloved companion on screens for more than 50 years, leaving an enduring legacy that has inspired and entertained generations.  We at Warner Bros. Animation have the privilege and honour of carrying on that legacy and send our warmest thoughts to his loved ones.”