Disney Legend Don Iwerks, an innovator in the development of camera, projection, and other technical systems for Disney parks and films, has died at the age of 96.
Iwerks, who passed away on 9 July, "embodied that rare combination of heart, ingenuity, and passion that has always defined Disney", said Josh D’Amaro, CEO of the Walt Disney Company.
"Through his innovative contributions to some of our most iconic films and attractions, he helped create experiences that have delighted generations of fans around the world," D'Amaro said.
Disney Legend Don Iwerks built the projection system for the popular 'Star Tours' attraction
"All of us at the Walt Disney Company will miss him deeply, and we send our most heartfelt condolences to his family, whose enduring connection to Disney has helped shape its legacy for over a century."
Born on 24 July 1929, Iwerks started his career at Disney in 1950 as a special photographic processes laboratory technician, following in the footsteps of his father, fellow Disney Legend Ub Iwerks.
"There was a 'can-do' attitude I learned from Walt and my father," he once said. “If you’re doing a really first-class job, you don’t need to worry about the money. It will come.
"Walt gave everyone a feeling that they were creating things that others had never thought of before, of being a part of history."
Disney technical visionary dies at 96
Iwerks' achievements at Disney theme parks include helping to develop the 360-degree Circle-Vision camera, first used inside the 'Circarama, U.S.A.' attraction when Disneyland opened in 1955.
He also built the projection system for the popular 'Star Tours' attraction, an immersive 3D motion-simulator ride at Disney parks.
Following a 35-year career with Disney, Iwerks formed his own company, Iwerks Entertainment, in 1986. The company was acquired by SimEx in 2001 and became SimEx-Iwerks, a pioneer in developing immersive cinematic experiences.
Images courtesy of Disney
