Sergey Mikhalkov, Russian writer, dies at 97

August 27, 2009

, a well-known Russian childrens poet and a writer, died on Thursday in Moscow after a heart attack in February.

He is lyricist for both the (with ) and the. Born in 1913 in the, he lived a long life and gained high popularity in the and respect in modern Russia.

In 1962 he founded, a Soviet satirical TV series about life in the USSR.

His poems about  became popular among children. He was also a scriptwriter for some animation films and films.

He is the father of and, notable Russian film directors and producers.

He was awarded three Stalin Prizes (1941, 1942, 1950), Order of Lenin, a 2nd class Order For Service to Fatherland (2003) and others. He is considered a.

His funeral is scheduled to take place tomorrow, at the Christ The Saviour Cathedral in Moscow.