Coronation Street star Bill Tarmey who played Jack Duckworth dies aged 71 Coronation Street star Bill Tarmey has died aged 71. The actor passed away in Tenerife yesterday and is survived by wife Alma, son Carl and daughter Sara. A statement from his family read: 'The family of Bill Tarmey have confirmed that he sadly passed away this morning in Tenerife. They have respectfully asked the media for privacy as they grieve for a wonderful husband, father and brother. Tarmey left the soap in 2010 after more than 30 years playing the pigeon-fancying rogue Jack Duckworth. Alongside Liz Dawn, who played his wife Vera, the Duckworths became one of the most famous families in the soaps" 52-year history. A statement from Coronation Street read: "The cast, crew and production team at Coronation Street are devastated to hear of Bill's death. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bill's wife and soulmate Ali and their family at this very sad time. A life-long heavy smoker, Tamey had suffered a minor heart attack following a bypass operation in 2002. Speaking about his illness, Tarmey said: "I'm deeply worried. I have cheated death so many times I feel like a cat running out of lives. I've already died twice and the last time they brought me back to life using a medical version of jump leads. Antony Cotton, who plays Sean Tully in the show, paid tribute on Twitter saying: "Goodnight Bill Tarmey. You were the best. We'll miss you so much x Tarmey left Coronation Street in April 2010 to spend more time with his family.