We are saddened to announce the passing of Patrick Wayne Swayze, a beloved actor, dancer and actor, on September 14, 2009 at the age of 57. Mr. Swayze was born in Houston on August 18, 1952, and is best remembered for his roles in film classics such as Dirty Dancing and Ghost. He began his career as a dancer, starring in movie musicals that included Xanadu. His film debut was in the movie Skatetown, U.S.A., which also starred Scott Baio and Flip Wilson. His biggest break came when he appeared in and starred in the 1987 romantic drama Dirty Dancing. He went on to star in several other films, including Ghost, Road House, Point Break, To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, and Red Dawn. He also appeared in several television roles and was the lead role in the television series The Beast. Mr. Swayze was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture—Comedy or Musical for his role in Dirty Dancing and was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1997. He is survived by his wife Lisa Niemi, whom he married in 1975, and their children Stephen and Danielle. He is predeceased by his parents, Jesse and Patsy Swayze.