People all over the great state of Louisiana took a moment to honor the passing of famed Louisiana artist George Rodrigue over the weekend. He was the artist behind the popular 'Blue Dog' paintings. Rodrigue's family shared the news late Saturday night that the artist passed in Houston at 69 years of age after a lengthy fight with cancer.

Rodrigue was a native of New Iberia, Louisiana, and his 'Blue Dog' series was based on the Cajun legend "loup-garou" (werewolf) featured in various settings, including an LSU jersey and in Absolut Vodka campaigns.

The following is the announcement that was posted on George Rodrigue's Facebook page Saturday, December 14, 2013:

We are heartbroken to share the news that George Rodrigue has passed away after a long battle with cancer. George was our loving husband, father and friend.

George Rodrigue was also a gifted artist who set out to paint Louisiana as he knew it by visually interpreting the landscape and the rich history of the Cajun people. Later in his career his Blue Dog paintings captured hearts and minds around the world.

He was not only a painter, but also a true community leader in his native Louisiana and second home of Carmel, California. George remained an advocate of the arts and arts-education throughout his life and dedicated himself to inspiring the next generation of artists and educators through his foundation, the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts.

While we mourn the loss of a great man, we also celebrate his rich life and legacy. George will remain a presence in the hearts of the people who got to know him and his work will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Please join us in remembering a true Louisiana legend. RIP George Rodrigue.

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