Guy Hovis, best known as a longtime performer on The Lawrence Welk Show, has left fans mourning after passing away at the age of 84.

On Friday, January 23, Ralna English, his former wife and on-screen partner, whom he was married to from 1969 to 1984, took to Facebook to confirm the loss.

English shared that Hovis passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 22, after spending several weeks in the hospital.

“As it has for me, this will come as a shock to many of you,” she wrote in a heartfelt post, adding, “Guy has been in the hospital for several weeks. I spoke briefly with him on Monday and was deeply concerned.”

“He took a turn for the worse, and it hurts me to tell you, but he died peacefully last night,” the 83-year-old singer continued. “Needless to say, at this time we are all devastated and simply trying to cope with this tragic news.”

Hovis and English were already married when they appeared together on the show during a 1969 Christmas special.

Their on-screen chemistry earned them repeat invitations from host Lawrence Welk, eventually leading to regular appearances.

The once-married pair became fan favourites on the program, performing together for 12 years until 1982.

Born on September 24, 1941, Guy Hovis and Ralna English adopted a daughter, Julie, in 1977 during their 15-year marriage.