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(Gray News) – Jazz guitarist and “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” star Joe Negri died Saturday, days before his 100th birthday, his oldest daughter told local outlet TribLIVE.
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Lisa Negri said her father died of natural causes, the TribLIVE reported. His family had been preparing to celebrate his centennial birthday on June 10.
While Joe Negri was well-known in the music industry, many children grew up watching him as Handyman Negri on “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.”
“The handyman doesn’t just fix things – he also fixes problems. I hope children see me as someone they can trust,” he said of his character in an article published by the show.
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The first episode of the show aired in 1968 and stuck around for 33 years.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Joe Negri, a beloved member of the ‘Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood’ family whose warmth, incredible musical talent, and gentle spirit brought endless joy to viewers for decades,” Fred Rogers Productions said in a statement obtained by People.
“Our hearts go out to Joe’s family, friends, and the generations of neighbors who loved him,” the statement continued.
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