RIP: Creator of Hot Wheels dies at 95

Sad news today for the inner child in us all:

Elliot Handler provided countless hours of joy to young men and women around the world. He is one half of the team that founded the Mattel toy company in 1945. Elliot, along with his wife Ruth and Mattel co-founder Harold Matson, established a business that's now a multi-billion dollar company employing over 30,000 people.

Elliot and Ruth (pictured together at right) created toys that are cherished by millions. Ruth is credited with bringing the Barbie lineup to life, while Elliot built Hot Wheels so that boys would also have a toy of their own.

Elliot Handler was born in Chicago, Illinois on April 9, 1916. His wife Ruth passed away on April 27, 2002. Elliot passed away on Thursday at the age of 95.