The actor best known as the nerdy high school student on the 1970’s TV comedy series “Welcome Back, Kotter”, Ron Palillo dies at 63. Reports say that he appeared to suffer from a heart attack at his home early in the morning. He was found by his partner and was eventually pronounced dead at Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center. His death left a big hole to those close to him and who have known him better. He is survived by his long time partner of 41 years, Joseph Gramm; two brothers and a sister.

Arnold Horshack, Ron Palillo dies at 63 (image source: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/ron-palillo-dead-welcome-back-kotter-361801)

Palillo was forever remembered and best known for the character as Arnold Horshack and his death came several months after his co-star of the sitcom Robert Hegyes, who also died early this year at the age of 60. Before Palillo’s death, he went on to play numerous supporting roles in TV series in the 80’s and in the 90’s he had lead roles in plays and musicals.

He was exposed in a local theater at an early age and fell in love. Then in the later part of his life he focused on stage directing and writing. His fellow cast member, John Travolta, went on to fame while he himself struggled to expand beyond his role as Horshack.