Famous Mouseketeer Annette Funicello dies

courtesy Walt Disney archives

   Probably the best-known member of the original 1950's Mickey Mouse Club and a star of numerous 1960's beach party films,
has passed away, according to  Walt Disney co. officials.

   Walt Disney himself picked her at age 13.

   Annette Funicello, who was 70, died peacefully from complications due to multiple sclerosis, which she had battled for over 25 years, according to the report.