Drake Hogestyn, the beloved Days of Our Lives star who played John Black for 38 years, has died. He was 70.

The actor was just one day shy of his 71st birthday when he died on Sept. 28, 2024, PEOPLE confirms.

The popular soap opera shared a statement from the actor’s family on social media.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” it reads. “He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination. After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”

The statement continues: “He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”

The message was signed, “The Hogestyn family.”

“This is a very difficult one for all of us,” Days of Our Lives executive producer Ken Corday said in a statement to PEOPLE. “Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”

Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn initially sought a career as a professional baseball player, even signing with the New York Yankees and playing for one of their farm teams until he was injured in 1977.

Hogestyn’s first big role came in the early 1980s in the CBS series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. He initially joined Days of Our Lives in 1986 as a mysterious character known as “The Pawn” before becoming a fan favorite as John Black.

John became one-half of several beloved pairings over the years, but few have been more popular than his connection with Marlena Evans, played by Deidre Hall. Together, they won a Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005.

Hogestyn wasn’t just known for his long-running role though. He and his childhood sweetheart, Victoria Post, wed in 1986 and remained married for 37 years. They welcomed four children — daughters Whitney, Alexandra and Rachael, and son, Ben — and have seven grandchildren.

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The actor’s DOOL costars were quick to take to social media to share their memories.

“Drake was an incredible man,” Alison Sweeney wrote on Instagram. “He was funny, generous and thoughtful. He cared about every single scene, every person. He loved Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family, they meant everything to him. He was such a huge part of my life at Days. I will miss him terribly and treasure every story, every joke & every hug.”

Kristian Alfonso wrote, “I’ll always remember you as a Loving, Loving father, husband and Dear friend but mostly an incredible, passionate human being, generous and immensely kind, Always …… Thank youuuu for the love you gave us all everyday Drake on set and off you were always our hero.”

Christopher Sean, who played John’s illegitimate son Paul Narita, wrote a touching tribute on X alongside a photo from the show of John and Paul hugging.

“I will always love you,” he said. “You were more than just my tv father, in my eyes you were my dad. Thank you for everything you taught me and the love you gave me. The world lost a true Hero. Miss and love you so much Drake. Rest in Peace Dad.”

Genie Francis noted, “So sad to hear of Drake Hogestyn’s passing. Such a wonderful and kind man. It was a pleasure to work with him. I always loved how much he loved his wife and children.”