Beloved actor Robin Williams passes away at 63.

The statement sent out by the Marin County Sheriff's Office today brought tragic news: Robin Williams, a beloved actor and comedian known for heartfelt performances and widespread appeal, was found dead in his home in unincorporated Tiburon just before noon. He was 63. 

The preliminary assessment by the sheriff's office coroner division is that Williams died in an apparent suicide by asphyxiation, though a comprehensive investigation will take place before a final determination is made. A forensic examination is scheduled for Aug. 12 with subsequent toxicology testing to come. 

A long time San Francisco resident, Williams became a national star with the hit TV show Mork & Mindy, and later achieved greater fame with starring roles in the films Good Morning, Vietnam and Mrs. Doubtfire, among others. Williams performance in Good Will Hunting netted him his only Academy Award, which he received for best supporting actor. 

This reporter used to drive by Williams' former home in San Francisco regularly while the actor still lived there, and more often than not, his front door was wide open, which seemed a kind of metaphor for a man whose performances sprung from a warm, open heart. 

Here's Williams riffing on Tiger Woods in signature style: 

RIP Robin, you will be missed dearly.