I never watched the show either, but I know people from my graduating class that would be utterly
devestated... there's a girl I know who shared the same birthday with me, only a few hours apart (same hospital I think). We used to compare our activities every birthday when I was on social. She was a complete mega fan...
The picture in the OP gives off a pretty good vibe... he seems like a nice man... it's a shame, but we all have to go sometime... make every minute count
RIP, Stephen Hillenburg...☆