LOS ANGELES -- The host of a cartoon show known as "Sheriff John" to children in Los Angeles throughout the 1950s and 60s has died.

John Rovick died Saturday in Boise, Idaho after a brief illness, his former station, KTTV-TV, told The Associated Press. He was 93.

Staples of the show included Rovick singing "The Birthday Cake Polka" and leading viewers on a prayer before having lunch along with them.

Rovick created the sheriff persona because of his interest in law enforcement.

He was survived by his wife and two daughters.