At least we know Earle Hagen was perfectly capable of whistling a happy tune.

The creator of the instantly recognizable themes for The Andy Griffith Show and The dicck Van dykke Show, died Monday at his home in Rancho Mirage, Calif. He was 88.

His wife, Laura, said he had been in poor health for several months.

Hagen, whose whistling can be heard as Sheriff Andy Taylor and his son Opie make their way to their favorite Mayberry fishing spot during Griffith's opening credits, composed original music for thousands of TV episodes, pilots and movies, including the theme songs for That Girl, Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C, The Mod Squad and I Spy.

He and cowriter Lionel Newman also earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Musical Score for their work on the 1960 Marilyn Monroe comedy Let's Make Love.

"The music just flowed from him, and he would take off one hat and put on another and go on to the next show," Laura Hagen said.

Words to the Theme Song

Well, now, take down your fishin' pole and meet me at The Fishin' Hole,
We may not get a bite all day, but don't you rush away.

What a great place to rest your bones and mighty fine for skippin' stones,
You'll feel fresh as a lemonade, a-settin' in the shade.

Whether it's hot, whether it's cool, oh what a spot for whistlin' like a fool.

What a fine day to take a stroll and wander by The Fishin' Hole,
I can't think of a better way to pass the time o' day.

We'll have no need to call the roll when we get to The Fishin' Hole,
There'll be you, me, and Old Dog Trey, to doodle time away.

If we don't hook a perch or bass, we'll cool our toes in dewy grass,
Or else pull up a weed to chaw, and maybe set and jaw.

Hangin' around, takin' our ease, watchin' that hound a-scratchin' at his fleas.

Come on, take down your fishin' pole and meet me at The Fishin' Hole,
I can't think of a better way to pass the time o' day.

Awww Sadly I dont think I ever knew his name. Nor did I know he was the creator of so many theme songs that I had grown up with..BTW they were repeats when I was a kid (not that old yet).

I love the Whistle Song from Andy G...You cant hear it and not smile..And then try to whistle it later hehe

Thanks for posting and may he Rest in Peace.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Sydneyjean,

That is sad! That is like my favorite show Ever! Me & some of my family can recite (sp) lines from that show! I know that's kinda sad! But,it is still the best show ever! I know several birds in the family who love that song & they do a pretty good job at it!! What a great person he was!!