WELCOME BACK KOTTER Star Marcia Strassman Dies at 66

PEOPLE reports that Marcia Strassman, best known as Gabe Kaplan's wife, Julie, on the hit 70's comedy WELCOME BACK KOTTER has passed away at the age of 66.

Strassman's sister revealed that the actress passed away at her home in Sherman Oaks, CA on Friday, October 24th following a long battle against breast cancer.

Said Julie Strassman, "She was the funniest, smartest person I ever met. And talented. She knew everything. Now I won't be able to call her and ask her questions."

Singer and actress Cher, took to Twitter to share her thoughts on the passing of her friend: "Wanted U2 No,a Funny,Talented Friend Died.Not 4U 2feel sorry 4me,but she died alone, &Energy from U is powerful &Sends (love) 'Marsha (sic) Strassman'"

In addition to her role on 'Kotter,' the actress had a recurring role as nurse Margie Cutler on the premiere season of M-A-S-H. On film, she portrayed the wife of Rick Moranis in Disney's Honey I Shrunk The Kids. She reprised the role in the film's sequel, Honey I Blew Up The Kid.

According to the report, Strassman is survived by a daughter and a brother.

Photo by ABC Photo Archives/ABC via Getty Images - © American Broadcasting Companies, Inc.