SpongeBob SquarePants creator Stephen Hillenburg recently passed away at age 57 from complications of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
His brilliant creative mind is being honored by the internet.
Hillenburg changed animation forever and his work influenced the lives of countless young people around the globe.
In his memory, heartbroken fans are sharing their favorite moments from SpongeBob SquarePants.
While it's difficult to process Hillenburg's death, some of these moments may bring a smile to your face.
People are celebrating Hillenburg's life as a director, cartoonist and marine biologist.
Rest In Peace Stephen Hillenburg and thank you for all the laughs. https://t.co/c7wCx0vjWv— Xenon (@Xenon) 1543477125.0
I know I'm late but anyway! Thank you Stephen Hillenburg for creating one of the best cartoons series in the world.… https://t.co/SWI1ZdAj3F— Rainbow Jaden (@Rainbow Jaden) 1543506290.0
In memory of Stephen Hillenburg, here’s the iconic Bubble Bowl performance that we all loved as children and adults… https://t.co/LmXYg4MV2q— WORLDSTAR HIP HOP FANS (@WORLDSTAR HIP HOP FANS) 1543506218.0
Fans are posting their most cherished moments from Spongebob Squarepants.
In memory of Stephen Hillenburg, here is my all-time favorite SpongeBob moment. https://t.co/wuVsqP9nAO— Harry Lichtman (@Harry Lichtman) 1543352322.0
#RIPStephenHillenburg You brought my lonely childhood so much joy. My absolute favorite Spongebob moment: The Bubbl… https://t.co/IzYdSup6l2— Chelsea L.C. (@Chelsea L.C.) 1543348860.0
This is still my favorite Spongebob moment, and IMO remains one of he funniest jokes ever written https://t.co/m3IgAEEW4h— Jill Gutowitz (@Jill Gutowitz) 1543344354.0
There are so many hilarious and touching moments to choose from!
If we're sharing some of our favorite Spongebob moments, here's one of mine, from the Krusty Krab Training Video.… https://t.co/j6ln4Yz3J8— TP (@TP) 1543373894.0
one of my personal all-time favorite spongebob moments #ThankYouStephenHillenburg https://t.co/jyOem7Xs7I— JustSomeRandomUser (@JustSomeRandomUser) 1543372942.0
Still my all time favorite SpongeBob moment #ThankYouStephenHillenburg https://t.co/TRibJPPbZn— Ice (@Ice) 1543361088.0
Who could forget the "BIG, MEATY, CLAWS" guy?
Others are posting beautiful artwork in tribute to Hillenburg.
This is definitely one of my all time favorite spongebob moments. You like krabby patties don’t you squidward? Than… https://t.co/Hy35jmhYPi— Jared Rank (@Jared Rank) 1543507047.0
Thank you Stephen Hillenburg, you shall always be in our hearts and never forgotten. https://t.co/7KTatzK65s— Fiinel (@Fiinel) 1543387323.0
Thank you for showing us it's okay to be yourself. Even if you are just a kid, or a goofball, or a wing nut, or a K… https://t.co/hb5nF6qL0f— Barb Kalustian (@Barb Kalustian) 1543387405.0
Stephen Hillenburg may be gone, but it's clear his timeless creations will continue to thrive. We expect 2020's The SpongeBob Movie: It's a Wonderful Sponge to contain further tributes to his creative genius.
H/T: New York Times, Complex