Stuart M. Kaminsky, a Northwestern alumnus, professor and noted author, died Friday at a St. Louis hospital. He was 75.

Kaminsky, a native Chicagoan, graduated from NU with a Ph.D. in speech in 1972. He taught film and film history at the University from 1973 to 1989.

A prolific author, Kaminsky penned more than 60 books, including the “Toby Peters” and

“Inspector Rostnikov” mystery series. His book “A Cold Red Sunrise” won Best Novel from the Mystery Writers of America in 1989, and he received the Grand Master award for lifetime achievement from the association in 2006.

“Certainly Mr. Kaminsky was someone who was a renowned writer and had some wonderful books,” said University Spokesman Al Cubbage. “That’s the thing about his writing. It was always a good read.”

According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Kaminsky suffered from hepatitis C and moved to St. Louis earlier this year to receive a liver transplant. He suffered a stroke shortly after the move and became ineligible for the transplant.

A graveside service was held Monday.