'SpongeBob' creator Stephen Hillenburg's ashes scattered at sea
"SpongeBob SquarePants" creator Stephen Hillenburg died on Nov. 26. Credit: Getty Images/Junko Kimura
In what seems like a fitting farewell for the man behind one of TV's most beloved creatures, the remains of "SpongeBob SquarePants" creator Stephen Hillenburg have been scattered at sea, TMZ reports.
The ashes of Hillenburg, who died on Nov. 26, were scattered 500 yards off the coast of California after his body was cremated, according to a copy of his death certificate obtained by TMZ. The certificate also stated that the official cause of death was cardiopulmonary failure due to ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Hillenburg, who was diagnosed with ALS in March of 2017, was 57. He is survived by his wife, Karen, and son, Clay.
"SpongeBob SquarePants," about an animated sponge and his friends who live under the sea, has been a top-rated show for Nickelodeon and will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year.
