Gene Autry, iconic American singer and actor, passed away at the age of 91 on October 2, 1998. Born Orvon Gene Autry in Tioga, Texas, on September 29, 1907, Autry's gentle cowboy singing style brought him a level of fame and fortune that few entertainers experience. His achievements made him an enduring symbol of the American West. Among his many accomplishments in music, Autry had 193 Top 10 Country & Western (C&W) hits, including the beloved holiday tune "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer". He also had 101 C&W No. 1 hits. Autry was a charter member of the Grand Ole Opry and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1969. Though Autry is best known for his musical career, he also appeared in many Hollywood films and became a movie star. His first screen role was in 1934, and his steady film work resulted in many starring roles. Autry appeared in 93 films; some of his most popular are “The Singing Cowboy” (1936), “Springtime in the Sierras” (1947) and “The Great Sioux Uprising” (1953). In addition, Autry owned radio station KMPC in Los Angeles from 1962 until his death. Autry's philanthropic contributions to his hometown of Tioga, Texas include the Gene Autry museum, a new elementary school, and a municipal park. He is survived by his wife, Ina, and their two children, Johnny and Kathy. Autry was buried in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills, California.