Best-selling author Michael Crichton died in Los Angeles Tuesday, CBS reports.  The creative force succumbed in a private battle with cancer, according to a statement released by his family. He was 66.

As a writer and filmmaker, Crichton has twenty-five novels to his credit.  He has been a part of movie productions ten times and had another thirteen of his books made into movies.  Among his better known works are the Andromeda Strain, Jurassic Park, Disclosure and The Thirteenth Warrior.  He also created the television drama “ER” which is currently in its fifteenth and final season.

“While the world knew him as a great story teller that challenged our preconceived notions about the world around us — and entertained us all while doing so — his wife Sherri, daughter Taylor, family and friends knew Michael Crichton as a devoted husband, loving father and generous friend who inspired each of us to strive to see the wonders of our world through new eyes,” the statement released by his family said. “He did this with a wry sense of humor that those who were privileged to know him personally will never forget.”

Funeral arrangements have not been announced, but presumably will be a private ceremony.