From Wikipedia:

Gracie died on the morning of January 29, 2009 in his sleep in Itaipaiva, Rio de Janeiro. The cause of death appeared to be of natural causes. Gracie had been having stomach problems a few days before when he was admitted to a local hospital in Rio de Janeiro. “I created a flag from the sport’s dignity. I oversee the name of my family with affection and nerves of blood,” were Gracie's last words. Gracie is survived by his wife Vera, his sons Rickson, Royler, Rolker, Royce, Relson, Robin and Rorion, his daughters Rerika and Ricci, as well as numerous siblings, nieces, nephews and grandchildren.
Source(s):
Wikipedia article on Helio Gracie:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helio_gracie

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