Viola Kates Stimpson

STIMPSON, Viola Kates Actress, born in Brooklyn, New York Oct. 25, 1906. She was the middle of ten children. She died peacefully at home in Tarzana Jan. 14, 2008 after a brief illness. Her daughter and caregiver were at her side. Her acting career spanned several generations. She began as a chorus girl and dancer in the 1920's, before becoming a stage actress. In 1951 she returned to college and became a classroom teacher in the L.A. public schools until her retirement in 1971. She then resumed her acting career in stage, film (Star Trek IV, Woman in Red, Bionic Woman), and TV including General Hospital, Seinfield and many commercials. She continued to take calls from her agent until age 95. She is survived by a daughter, Helena Leiner M.D. (Katz), granddaughter Paola Katz of Berkeley and brother Dan Kates of Brooklyn. Her ashes will go to Westwood Memorial Park where she will be buried next to her husband Robert Stimpson. Memorial plans are pending.