Peter Crombie, best known for his roles in Seinfeld and House of Frankenstein, has died at the age of 71. Crombie’s ex-wife Nadine Kijner shared her “shock and extreme sadness” as she announced her husband’s death on Instagram on Wednesday.
“It is with shock and extreme sadness that I share my ex-husband died this morning,” Kijner began the post. “Thank you for so many wonderful memories and being such a good man. Fly free into the Un-boundless source of light, Peter. May you be greeted with love by your parents, and Oliver 🐈⬛,” Kijner began her tribute.
Beside her touching tribute, Kijner posted photos of her and Crombie on their wedding day. In the snaps, the couple embraced during their wedding reception and kissed underneath a white altar decorated in tulle. Crombie fed Kijner a piece of wedding cake in another sweet shot shared.
Peter Crombie — who is widely known for his Seinfeld character “Crazy” Joe Davola, a figure who constantly terrorized Jerry Seinfeld — died following a short illness on Wednesday morning, Kijner told TMZ on Friday. No further details on his death have been disclosed at this time.
“So, so many people loved you because you were a kind, giving, caring and creative soul,” Kijner’s post concluded.
Kijner did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for further comment. Representatives for Crombie could not immediately be found.
Alongside his Seinfeld role, which he portrayed for five episodes in the hit sitcom from 1992 to 1993, Crombie had more than 35 acting credits for TV and movies in his long career.
Crombie’s first role, per IMDB, was in the 1987 TV movie Broken Vows. He went on to star in various TV shows, including the mini-series House of Frankenstein (1997), L.A. Firefighters (1996), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993), Law & Order (1991), and As the World Turns (1989).
The actor also starred in the films Natural Born Killers (1994) and Born on the Fourth of July (1989).
Crombie’s most recent role was back in 2000 as Detective Moody in the TV series Walker, Texas Ranger, according to IMDB.
The late actor was paid tribute to by friends on social media following the news of his death.
Friend and comedian Lewis Black wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter): “Am heartbroken by the death of my good friend Peter Crombie. He was a gifted artist. Not only was he a wonderful actor but an immensely talented writer. More importantly he was as sweet as he was intelligent and I am a better person for knowing him.”
Friend Bill Stetz wrote on Facebook: “It is with a sad heart that today, I convey that my good friend Peter Crombie has passed away. For those who knew him, he was a gentle and loyal friend of soft words and expressive work as an actor and a writer. Rest in peace, Peter.”
