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The Obamas commented today on the passing of director and actor Harold Ramis, even quoting from a line from his unforgettable "Ghostbusters" movie.

"Michelle and I were saddened to hear of the passing of Harold Ramis, one of America's greatest satirists, and like so many other comedic geniuses, a proud product of Chicago's Second City. When we watched his movies - from 'Animal House' and 'Caddyshack' to 'Ghostbusters' and 'Groundhog Day' - we didn't just laugh until it hurt. We questioned authority. We identified with the outsider. We rooted for the underdog. And through it all, we never lost our faith in happy endings. Our thoughts and prayers are with Harold's wife, Erica, his children and grandchildren, and all those who loved him, who quote his work with abandon, and who hope that he received total consciousness," the Obamas said in a statement.

Ramis died at 69 years old, United Talent Agency confirmed to ABC News yesterday.

Ramis was known as much for his off-screen work - writing the "Ghostbusters" films, along with "Groundhog Day" and "Analyze This" - as he was for playing Dr. Egon Spengler in front of the camera.