— -- In an exclusive essay for ABC News, Karen Wilder opens up about her 35-year marriage to the late actor and activist Gene Wilder. The “Young Frankenstein” star died last year at the age of 83, after battling Alzheimer's disease in the final years of his life. ... I met Gene Wilder in 1989.

What happened to actor Gene Wilder?

Death. Wilder died at the age of 83 on August 29, 2016, at home in Stamford, Connecticut, from complications of Alzheimer's disease. He had been diagnosed 3 years before his death, but kept knowledge of his condition private.

When did Gene Wilder die?

Gene Wilder, original name Jerome Silberman, (born June 11, 1933, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.—died August 29, 2016, Stamford, Connecticut), American comic actor best known for his portrayals of high-strung neurotic characters who generally seemed to be striving unsuccessfully to appear more balanced than they were.