Iwao Takamoto, Scooby-Doo Creator, Has Died

Iwao Takamoto, the creator of legendary cartoon, Scooby-Doo, has died age 81.

Takamoto, who also created animated cartoon classic 'Charlotte's Web,' died yesterday of heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Warner Bros spokesman Gary Miereanu said.

In a career that spanned more than six decades, Takamoto assisted in the designs of some of the biggest animated features and television shows for Disney and the Hanna-Barbera animation team.

They included Cinderella, Peter Pan, Lady and the Tramp,101 Dalmatians, The Jetsons and The Flintstones.

But it was his creation of Scooby-Doo, the cowardly dog with an adventurous heart that captivated audiences and endured for generations.

Takamoto was survived by his wife, Barbara, son Michael and stepdaughter Leslie. Funeral arrangements were pending.
ref:metro