http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/dean-jones-star-of-the-love-bug-dies-at-age-84-201529
My son (age 5) fell in love with Herbie the Love Bug and Jim Douglas (i.e, Dean Jones) 3 years ago. It was easy to buy him "Herbie" cars for gifts and he has over 50 VW bug toy cars. We play "Herbie" instead of "Slug Bug" and have been to several VW vintage car shows over the years. He likes going to the VW dealership as an award for good behavior.
A few years ago I wrote to Dean Jones and thanked him for his films and the joy they brought my little son. Dean Jones wrote back a nice personalized letter to my son and provided him an autograph photo of himself with Herbie. My son was able to open it up for Christmas (which was also came as a surprise to me)
I will always love and appreciate Dean Jones. God rest my friend! I will find you in heaven and give you a hug!