'He was so kind and humble': Fans remember Luke Perry encounters in Vancouver

Luke Perry, who died Monday at the age of 52 after suffering a massive stroke, spent part of his last few years inVancouver filming the TV show,Riverdale.

Forthree seasons on Riverdale, the actorplayed construction-company owner Fred Andrews, the father of main character Archie Andrews.

Theseries has temporarily shut down production of its fourth season, following news of Perry's death.

Hours after theannouncement, tributes toPerry flooded social media.Actor Kevin Smith recalled running into Perry while on the set ofThe Flash, which is also shot in Vancouver.

The actor gained heartthrob status in the '90s while playing wealthy rebel Dylan McKay onBeverly Hills, 90210.

But his suave on-screen persona was at odds with the humble person that fans described.

Riverdaleproducers issueda joint statement Monday with WBTV and the CW network.

"Luke was everything you would hope he would be: an incredibly caring, consummate professional with a giant heart, and a true friend to all," read the statement.

"A father figure and mentor to the show's young cast, Luke was incredibly generous, and he infused the set with love and kindness. Our thoughts are with Luke's family during this most difficult time."

Kelly Sullivan, the kitchen manager at Rocko'sDiner in Mission, B.C., said she's disappointed she never got to meetPerry.

The diner closedfor a week when the show filmed there a couple years ago. It also hosted the Season 2premiere, servingfree milkshakes to attendees.

"It was really sad," Sullivan said of learning about Perry's death. "He was very, very young. Way too young to go."

NastaziaBorje, 24,and Joey Lee, 24, both travelled from Surrey, B.C., to Mission on Monday to visit the diner and pay tribute to Perry.

The friends said they watch the show every Wednesday together and were shocked to learn of Perry's death.

"It was almost out of nowhere," Borje said."I'm hoping that his family and his friends are taking this time and taking care of themselves. As a fan, it's just really sad."