Disney legend Annette Funicello dead at 70
Original Mousekateer and 1960s teen sensation Annette Funicello has died after fighting a long, hard, 25-year battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Annette passed away at Mercy Southwest Hospital in Bakersfield, CA, on April 8, 2013.
Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, commented on Annette’s death:
“Annette was and always will be a cherished member of the Disney family, synonymous with the word Mousketeer, and a true Disney Legend. She will forever hold a place in our hearts as one of Walt Disney’s brightest stars, delighting an entire generation of baby boomers with her jubilant personality and endless talent. Annette was well known for being as beautiful inside as she was on the outside, and she faced her physical challenges with dignity, bravery and grace. All of us at Disney join with family, friends, and fans around the world in celebrating her extraordinary life.”
Funicello was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1987 and five years later she revealed her illness to fans. Annette is certainly a fighter, even though she fell ill she kept making a difference in the world. After being diagnosed she founded The Annette Funicello Research Fund for Neurological Diseases and also The Annette Funicello Teddy Bear Company.
Her family is asking that in lieu of flowers, donations in Annette’s memory be made to The Annette Funicello Research Fund at annetteconnection.com.
You can also send your condolences and special memories of Annette with her family by emailing [email protected].
R.I.P., beautiful lady!
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