The actor who played shopkeeper Nels Oleson on Little House on the Prairie, Richard Bull, died yesterday morning in Calabasas, California. He was 89.

A prolific character actor, Bull appeared on numerous episodes of Mannix, Nichols, Felony Squad, Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, and Barnaby Jones, as well as many other shows.

He was best known of course for playing the hen-pecked shopkeeper married to Harriet Oleson (Scottie MacGregor) on Little House for more than 145 episodes.

Little House co-star Melissa Gilbert tweeted, “This man will be missed. Goodbye Richard working with you was such a joy but nearly as joyful as being your friend.”

Bull’s TV daughter, Alison Arngrim, tweeted about his passing as well. She first wrote “Aw crap.” and then, “Goodnight Pa.” She later scribed, “I just want to say, I am truly very touched by the overwhelming – and world wide – outpouring of love for Richard Bull. Thank you. Merci.”

Bull is survived by his wife of 65 years, actress Barbara Collentine.

What do you think? Do you remmeber the work of Richard Bull? Have any favorite memories?