Dennis Weaver, 2004 National AFV Day Odyssey spokesperson and an acclaimed actor and conservationist, passed away February 24, 2006, at his home in Ridgway, Colorado, at the age of 81. Mr. Weaver served as the 2004 Odyssey event national spokesperson, speaking at the media kick-off event in Palm Desert, California, and recording Odyssey promotional segments that aired on radio stations throughout the country.

Well known for his television portrayals of Chester Goode in “Gunsmoke” and Sam McCloud in “McCloud,” he also appeared in other TV series and movies such as “Gentle Ben,” “Touch of Evil,” “Ten Wanted Men,” “Gentle Giant,” “Seven Angry Men,” “Dragnet,” “Way ... Way Out,” and “The Bridges at Toko-Ri.” Mr. Weaver won an Emmy for the 1958–59 season of “Gunsmoke” and served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1973–1975. In 2001, he published his autobiography, “All the World’s a Stage.”

Mr. Weaver was a dedicated conservationist and environmental activist. He founded the Institute of Ecolonomics, which according to its Web site, seeks to demonstrate that “creating a symbiotic relationship between a strong economy and a healthy ecology is the only formula for a sustainable future.” In addition, Mr. Weaver and his wife, Gerry, built and lived in an environmentally friendly home known as an Earthship. Located in Colorado, the structure is solar powered and created from tires, aluminum cans, and other recycled material.

Along with his wife, Dennis Weaver is survived by his sons Rick, Robby, and Rusty and three grandchildren.

“Dennis Weaver was a wonderful spokesperson for National AFV Day Odyssey. He was such a joy to work with as he participated in Odyssey. He was professional, kind, funny, and really helped me through the production of ideas. His passion and commitment to the environment was heartfelt and personal. He’ll be missed by all at the NAFTC,” said Al Ebron, NAFTC Executive Director.