VIDEO: Howard Remembers Comedy Legend and 65-Time Stern Show Guest Richard Lewis

Richard Lewis, the legendary stand-up comedian and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” star who entertained audiences for more than half a century, has passed away from cardiac arrest. He was 76.

On Monday, Howard took time to pay tribute to Lewis who appeared on the Stern Show a whopping 65 times. “I remember I saw him on Letterman a couple of times, and I was like, ‘Hey, I should have him on — he’s funny,’” Howard recalled of the comedian, who first sat down with Howard in 1987.

During a 2011 visit, the comedian told Howard about the rigorous preparation he’d put into every performance. “I’d print out 60 pages before each gig … I don’t memorize it, I just look at it,” he said of his process at the time. “I wanted to do a new show every night.”

“Doctors who perform brain surgery don’t prepare as much as Richard Lewis,” Howard joked.

In addition to countless appearances on late-night television and film and television work, Lewis of course went on to co-star in “Curb Your Enthusiasm” with Larry David, who he first crossed paths with at summer camp when they were kids.

“Rest in peace Richard Lewis — really funny guy,” Howard said of his frequent guest. “We knew him for many, many years and he was always a very kind and loving and sweet guy … we’ll miss him.”