Fritz Spiess, Canada’s dean of commercial cinematography, died March 12 of leukemia at the age of 73.

Spiess was born in Germany and moved to Canada in 1951. He shot more than 3,000 commercials during his 37-year career as a cameraman and director of photography. He retired in 1991.

Since 1979, the Television Bureau of Canada has bestowed an award in his honor. The Spiess Award, presented annually at the Bessies, recognizes individuals who have furthered excellence in television advertising.

Spiess is survived by his wife, two daughters and a son.

A memorial service is planned for Sunday, April 19 at 4 p.m., to be held at McRann & Malone Commercial Studios, 388 Carlaw Ave., in Toronto.