The Life of Ernie Lively

NBCUniversal

Just a few weeks ago, actress Blake Lively's father, fellow actor Ernie Lively, passed away. For those who don't know, Ernie had a remarkable career. After serving in Vietnam, she became a professor. Afterward, in the late '70s, he made the jump to professional acting and never looked backed. Over the years, he starred in everything from The Waltons and Malibu Shores to The Dukes of Hazzard and That '70s Show. Before retiring, Ernie had his last role in yet another hit, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. In fact, he played the father of character Bridget Vreeland - portrayed by none of than Blake.

Over the years, Ernie had plenty of great moments, on and off the screen. In addition to acting, he also became the first person to receive retrograde heart surgery in 2013. His successful surgery opened up a world of doors in medical science! Afterward, Ernie said he felt better than ever!

"I woke up the other morning and told my wife, 'I haven't felt this good in years,'" he told People Magazine after the surgery. "I moved to Utah because of the snow, but I haven't been able to ski. I literally didn't have the heart to do it. Now, I'm excited about living the rest of my life instead of sitting around."

That incredible surgery gave Ernie Lively a lot more time. Sadly, he finally departed this world on June 3.

Blake Lively Remembers Her Father

Blake Lively/Instagram

As you might imagine, given their bond, Blake and Ernie had a closer relationship than most fathers and daughters. So, after his passing, she felt the need to remind everyone just how incredible he was. Via Instagram, Blake shared an adorable photo of the two. In the photo, Ernie holds Blake while kissing her on the forehead. While she did not caption the picture, it spoke plenty. Meanwhile, the actor and husband of Blake, Ryan Reynolds, shared the same photo.

The whole family was at the hospital during the time of Ernie's passing, and he went peacefully, according to reports. Ernie Lively is survived by his wife, Elaine Lively, and his five children: Blake, Eric, Lori, Robyn, and Jason. All five have gone into acting. After his passing, Robyn wrote a series of posts, remember her father. "His songs on the guitar always made me so happy, he brought so much security and love to my life," she wrote. "Honestly thank you all for the outpouring of empathy, compassion and love. Mending a broken heart. Thank you for all the kindness and compassion extended to my family. My Bug… always and forever I love you."

Rest in peace, Ernie Lively.