Bill Tarmey. Photo Getty
His family confirmed that he died in Tenerife, Spain, on Friday (local time), and asked for "privacy as they grieve for a wonderful husband, father and brother", BBC reports.
Tarmey left the soap in 2010 after more than 30 years in the show.
A statement from Coronation Street said the cast, crew and production team were "devastated" to learn of his death.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Bill's wife and soulmate Ali and their family at this very sad time," it said.
Liz Dawn, who played his on-screen wife Vera Duckworth, said: "You couldn't wish to meet a more lovely man and a true gentleman."
Tarmey was married to his childhood sweetheart Alison for 50 years and they had two children.
