(UPDATED) Veteran comedian Gary Lising, widely known for his green jokes and his comic flair, was found dead by his only son, Bugsy, in his condominium unit Saturday morning. Lising was 78.

An economics graduate from Ateneo de Manila University, Lising became part of the top-rating weekly gag show, “Champoy,” in the ‘80s. The caboodle included Tessie Tomas, Mitch Valdes, Noel Trinidad, Cherie Gil and the late Subas Herrero.

The secret of “Champoy’s” success, according to Lising, was involving the audience. “We asked them to send us the songs and jokes they want to hear,” Lising shared in a previous interview.

“I had ninety fights, all knock-outs,” Lising bragged in “Champoy,” sporting boxing gloves. “This time, I do different. I try to win.”

His green jokes were immortalized in the best-selling books he released through the years – “How Green Is Your Mind” (1999), “Golf, Erap and Other Four-Letter Word” (1999), released at the height of the administration of former President Joseph Estrada.

Lising also released three hilarious books in 2008, a year before his first heart attack.

He came out with “Lifestyles of the Poor and Unknown” (2008), apparently a parody of the “Lifestyles the Rich and Famous”; “Confessions of a D.O.M. (Delightful Old Man)” and “Everything You Wanted To Know About Sex But Were Afraid To Ask Your Children.”

In 2013, Lising was featured on “Rated K.” He wanted to have another crack at doing comedy. He used to do stand-up comedy acts. He acted on TV and even the movies.

Sadly, all those he saved for his only son disappeared after he got sick and was hospitalized repeatedly.

“To be frank with you, Korina, wala na akong pera,” Lising admitted. “My ambition is just to see my grandson.”

Mary May Generao Lising, the comedian’s niece, wrote on her Facebook account: “I was saddened whn I got to know bout ur recently (sic) death… Uncle Gary Lising.

“You are a ‘Jolly Man’ who always kept everyone u Happy. Your memories wil remembrd deep inside our thoughts and prayers may u rest in peace.”

Lising’s brother, Pompeii, added in his own tribute: “Thank you for all the laughs and love, we will miss you deeply. But I know that your jokes will make God laugh. Rest in peace my dear brother.”

A number of entertainment personalities were immediately saddened by the news and took to social media to condole with the family and express their grief.

“With tears, I say bye, Gary Lising. No words,” wrote Apo Hiking Society member Jim Paredes.

“Praying for the soul of a good friend. Rest in heavenly peace Gary Lising,” posted jazz prince Richard Merk.

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