Mike Amatt has died at the age of 71.
The former BBC presenter, who was also the creator of Mop and Smiff, died suddenly on June 28, his heartbroken son Michael confirmed on Sunday.
Michael, 27, said in a statement: "He used to make up stories for us all the time, especially when we went on family holidays. The stories would be a clue to a treasure hunt.
"He was a great dad and a good friend to a lot of people, he was always on hand to help. So many people have been sharing their stories of him, they are so many lovely stories of him."
Michael said his dad, who was also father to Laura, 33, and Nick, 32, would always have time for his family.
He remained friends with wife Veronica, from whom he was separated, and doted on his two grandchildren, Teddy and Charlie.
His son added: "So many people have been sharing their stories of him, they are so many lovely stories of him."
Mike's family say he could "turn a sea of frowns upside down".
Mike fronted the BBC series Playschool and wrote for the show - which ran from 1964 until 1988.
The talented performer, writer and illustrator lived in Bolton, Greater Manchester, and also wrote the BBC's Forget-me-Not Farm in 2013.
Mike was born in Salford, but had lived in Bolton for more than 40 years and his TV shows were often filmed in Bolton.
In his younger years, budding musician Mike was in Shane Fenton (aka Alvin Stardust) and the Fentones.
The talented guitarist also played in Mike Sweeney and the Thunderbirds.
Michael said: "He has done it all, stand-up comedy, stage shows, he performed in panto.
"He would go to primary schools and visiting care homes in his 60s."
A funeral service is to take place at Overdale Crematorium in Bolton on July 15 at 11am and people can follow the service at https://watch.obitus.com.
*A memorial page has been set up at https://michaelamatt.muchloved.com.
Donations can be made in Mike's name to the British Heart Foundation.
