Martin Lee “Marty” Erlichman, Barbra Streisand‘s manager for over sixty years, passed away on Oct. 31 at the age of 97.

According to a press release issued on Sunday (Nov. 1), Erlichman’s death was attributed to “age-related causes.”

Erlichman is recognized as an entertainment manager who discovered Streisand and played a crucial role in shaping her career since the early 1960s.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, on Sept. 13, 1929, Erlichman graduated from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. He received both an Emmy Award and a Peabody Award for his work as executive producer of the 1994 HBO television special Barbra: The Concert.

He first met Streisand when she was 19 years old, performing as the opening act for comedian Phil Leeds at Bon Soir nightclub in Greenwich Village. Streisand recalled that her soon-to-be manager felt chills upon hearing her sing; she felt an immediate connection with him, stating he “validated all my dreams” and was “like a guy from my old neighborhood,” having grown up near her in Brooklyn.

He assisted her in securing her first recording contract with Columbia Records. Streisand expressed gratitude for his negotiation that granted her creative control over her repertoire and album covers, which was “an unprecedented contract for a first-timer.”

“Although Marty lived a long and fulfilling life, nothing can prepare you for the reality of losing someone so dear,” Streisand stated following Erlichman’s passing. “I truly thought he would live forever. In my eyes, he was simply indestructible — always by my side through everything. We never even had a contract. Marty can never be replaced, and I will be forever grateful for his friendship, loyalty, and unwavering support.”

Streisand also mentioned, “A few weeks ago, he was trying to convince me to go on tour and told me he’d be there every step of the way. I know it’s extremely rare for show business relationships to endure as long as mine did with Marty. He trusted me, and I trusted him. This is a challenging business, but I always felt protected with Marty by my side.”

A statement from Erlichman’s family reads, “To the world, he was a giant of Hollywood; to us, he was a deeply devoted and loving father, husband, grandfather, and rock. We feel his loss deeply but are endlessly proud of the life he lived and the indelible mark he left on the world.”

During his management career — which included clients such as The Clancy Brothers, Tommy Makem, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, comedian/actor Chevy Chase, heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman, and record producer/songwriter Bob Crewe — Erlichman also worked as a film producer with credits including Streisand’s 1974 comedy For Pete’s Sake; psychological thriller Coma (1978), starring Michael Douglas; and romantic thriller Breathless (1983), starring Richard Gere.

Erlichman is survived by his wife of 52 years, Miko Mayama Erlichman; son J.J. Erlichman (a tour and production manager); daughter-in-law Talia; and four grandchildren: Mia, Sarah, Olivia, and Jack. His family plans to hold a private service to honor his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Erlichman’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the National Kidney Foundation.