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Len Lesser Obituary
Lesser's family said in a statement that he died in Burbank, Calif., from cancer-related pneumonia.
"Heaven got a great comedian and actor today," his daughter, Michele, said in the statement. "The outpouring of sympathy we've already received has been amazing and is so greatly appreciated. Thank you to all the people who helped make my father's last journey special and surrounded with love."
Lesser's lengthy list of television credits included parts on "Get Smart," "That Girl," "The Munsters," "The Monkees," "The Rockford Files," "thirtysomething," "ER," and "Everybody Loves Raymond," which featured Lesser in a recurring role as the arm-shaking Garvin. His film credits included "Outlaw Josey Wales," "Kelly's Heroes," "Birdman of Alcatraz" and "Death Hunt." He most recently appeared on the TV drama "Castle."
He is survived by his daughter, Michele; son, David; daughter-in-law, Julie; and grandchildren, Jonathan, Kayla, and Mayah.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
182 Entries
Allison Dupont
March 8, 2016
Never forgotten, Rest in Peace sir.
Harry Simpson
February 16, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Rest Leonard, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Lisa Weiner
May 11, 2014
To Len Lesser.
You were a very talented actor. I enjoyed watching you on Seinfield. My prayers go to your family and you too. Lisa Weiner
clay pruett
February 16, 2014
loved you in Josey Whales
How you can show support
Mary Frintner
March 16, 2011
Michele, I was thrilled that I had a chance to work with your dad and meet you when you helped us buy our house. My sympathy to you and your family.
Gary
February 28, 2011
you will be missed, "Uncle Leo"
A Robinson
February 27, 2011
Please accept my sympathy for your loss. We all eagerly wait for the wonderful time when we see the following fulfilled; "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more. Neither mourning, nor outcry nor pain be anymore, the former things have passed away."
HYMAN GORENSTEIN
February 23, 2011
To the children of Len Lesser:
I loved his friendship when we served in the CBI Theater during WWII. He handled the mail for us.
I also lenjoyed watching him on TV.
Kim F.
February 23, 2011
Len was a very sweet and funny man. I am a cousin in Florida and am very glad I had an opportunity to meet him a couple years ago. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.....may he rest in peace.
Gary Nixon
February 21, 2011
r.i.p. Uncle Leo.
Fannie Flowers
February 21, 2011
What a delightful funny man. I am sure you have many fond memories. may those memories of Len and the strength from God help you through this sad time.
Philippians 4:13
Richard Turpin
February 21, 2011
He was a very funny man and he will be missed. May he rest in peace and thank you for all of the years of laughter you brought to millions of people.
Carole
February 21, 2011
Funny guy. One of my favorites on Seinfeld.
Jennifer Winters
February 20, 2011
to the family of Len Lesser . I am so sorry to hear about Len. He was really funny actor. May God bless you at this time of grief. May the Lord keep you and strength you and your family.
Roy DeHaven
February 20, 2011
Thanks to the family for sharing him with the world. His characters were well played and his work was solid.
Mairlynn
February 20, 2011
I am sorry to hear of your fathers death. I know there are no words to say at this time except to let you know that the thoughts of many are with you in this time of sorow. May our heaveny Father give you comfort and peace in the days to come. - Psalm 54:18
February 20, 2011
GOOD-BYE!
Allen Howes
February 20, 2011
A real stand-out in his roles in Get Smart and Seinfeld just to name two.
We'll miss you Len.
February 19, 2011
I don't usually respond to the celebritery obits. But I loved this man so much with his ahhh ahhh, on raymond and seinfield. Peace be with you. You sure did make your mark on entertainment. Thank you
Howie Harts
February 19, 2011
A great actor in various roles.
Len's here and without the watch!
Richard Schiff
February 19, 2011
Our sincerest condolences to the Lessers. May God, Len's Saviour from Birth, Hold Him Close and secure his place in Paradise.
Jackie R.
February 19, 2011
Len always put a smile on my face. May his family be blessed with sweet memories.
Sharon R.
February 19, 2011
A great actor....Hey! Len's here!!!!
Sharon (Birmingham, AL)
Dave Mann
February 19, 2011
I can see it now----Len arrives in Heaven and says to God, "HELLO!". Thanks for all your years of entertaining us. Your portrayal of Uncle Leo on "Seinfeld" will go down as a classic.
Reed Family
February 19, 2011
My sincere condolences to the entire family. May God give you the needed strenght to endure. Isa. 28:8
February 18, 2011
To the Lesser Family: My very sincere sympathy to you. Your Father was a comedic genius. I will always remember his role as "Uncle Leo." He gave me and millions of people laughter and smiles. Jane M. Austerlitz, NY
John Boyle
February 18, 2011
God just said, "Hey, Len's here! HaaaHaaa!" Loved you on "Seinfeld" and "Raymond."
robert piechowski
February 18, 2011
A very funny man, loved by many for his talents. He seemed to live a full life, very professional and good at what he did. Job well done my servant, welcome home. HELLO!
Teri Lesser
February 18, 2011
To the Lesser family,
Len Lesser was always bigger than life to me as I was growing up. You see, he was my cousin. Every time we saw him on TV, we all rushed to see cousin Lenny. No matter what role he was in, he made us really proud. God bless you all and our deepest sympathy. I will keep you all in my prayers. Always remember how wonderful of a Dad and Grand Dad he was. Rest in peace, cousin Lenny.
Arlene Garelick
February 18, 2011
To the Lesser family...
My brother and I are both very sorry for your loss. May his memory be for a blessing. What a wonderful talent. Our father and your father were boyhood friends, and were also in the army together. I even have photos of him back then. My father, Kenny, was very proud to know your dad, and throughout my life, I would hear Lenny Lesser's name. He actually came to my 50th birthday party in Santa Monica, as a surprise to my parents..a very lovely gesture.
I know how it feels to lose a parent and my thoughts and prayers are with you. I would love to connect with you. I couldn't find any info on the funeral....but perhaps at the memorial.
Many blessings Michele, David and family.
February 18, 2011
About 2 years ago, my daughter graduated from a Midwest college with a degree in acting and headed to LA by herself. She was alone, broke and lonely. On top of everything, she got sick and ended up at CVS in Burbank looking for anyover-the-counter drug that would help relieve some of her flu symtoms. Feeling on the verge of crying, she heard a a familiar voice, looked up and saw Len Lesser (Uncle Leo) standing in the prescription line making jokes to the other frustrated people in line. My daughter wanted to go up to him and thank him for allowing her to grow up with him on Seinfeld, Raymond and countless oldtime westerns, but was too embarrassed of how bad she looked. Then, for no reason Len looked her way nodded his head and smiled. She called home that night and said of anybody she could see in Hollywood - she was so happy to have had the privilege of seeing Len Lesser, because, for her, he was a family friend and uncle. His contributions and love of life will always fill our hearts. Thanks for the memories andfor helping my daughter.
The Sagendorfs
February 18, 2011
Farewell "Uncle Leo".....thanks for the laughs!
Judy Penzel
February 18, 2011
Thank you for sharing your special talent with us for so many years.
Scott Getty
February 18, 2011
Will always be one of my favorite actors..."we gots us a Josey Wales" is always quoted during every family get together...He will be missed a lot...Ray's here....haaa haaaaa...with his arms raised...and then who can forget Uncle Leo...Your Father had HELLO JERRY tattood on his knuckles...How cool was Mr Len Lesser...RIP Uncle Leo!!!
chris cazzato
February 18, 2011
to the lesser family.i loved your fathers roles on both seinfeld and raymond.he was funny.it seems like god has all the funny people up there.he was a great actor and i sent u my deepest smpathies.
Brian Dours
February 18, 2011
I'm very saddened by Len's departure. He made me laugh so hard.
Garland & Little Garland
February 18, 2011
Your Father was truly a funny and talented actor. May God bless you and may
your Dad's Soul Rest in Peace!
donald quader
February 18, 2011
you were my uncle leo you made me laugh rest in peace to a great man
February 18, 2011
How saddened our family was to hear of Mr. Lesser's passing. We truly loved him as Garvin in Everybody Loves Raymond ... how could you not !!! God Bless You !!!
Linda Carter
February 18, 2011
Len Lesser will live on with the fondest of memories to so many fans! Len brought so much joy and happiness into people's lives with his remarkable talent. A most loveable character, a legend for sure! I agree with Stephen Comency's statement that Uncle Leo has replaced Sam as America's Uncle!
My sincere condolences to the family, may you find peace with your memories and with being so blessed with such a father.
elmer thibodeau
February 18, 2011
was so sorry to hear about Len s passing I knew him more from everybody loves raymond he was a cool old guy & will be missed alot !
Beverly Smith
February 18, 2011
RIP Len. Thanks for the wonderful memories. I loved your character on Everybody Loves Raymond.
February 18, 2011
my favorite episode of Uncle Leo, when he burned his eyebrows and he painted them on. One of my favorite episodes.
Mona D
February 17, 2011
Thank you so much Mr. Lesser for all the laughs. My symapathy to your family. I hope they can find some comfort in knowing how much you meant and the enjoyment you have given all of us, and will continue with reruns.
H E L L O J E R R Y
Eraina Woodworth
February 17, 2011
I thought Mr. Lesser was the funniest character on "Seinfeld". He had that demanding yet gangster demeaner. Always trying to get or make a deal with Jerry. Rest in peace.
Margaret Beard
February 17, 2011
To the families of Mr. Len Lesser,
May you all cotinue to remember the talented man your father, grandfather was. May you throw your burden on our Heavenly Father who is the God of comfort for all those who are mourning. " Isaiah 61:2- He comfort us in all our tribulations. You are in my prayers.
JoAnne
February 17, 2011
Hey Uncle Leo: "Ya done good kid".. Rest in peace Mr Lesser. The show's not over, it's a different journey now.
R Golay
February 17, 2011
To the the family of Len Lesser - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that Len will be missed by many.
james rhodes
February 17, 2011
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
February 17, 2011
JERRRRRRY!!!!! His immortal words will live on forever for all of us Seinfeld fans. You will be missed! Rest in peace and blessings to your family.
jerry cuellar
February 17, 2011
i can hear him now.."hey hey, i made it guys. dont ask me how ..dooont aaasssk wil ya! alright alright ask .i was good, real good '
Melissa D
February 17, 2011
I'm saddened by his death. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. What a great actor!! Rest in peace Uncle Leo.
annette Jacobs
February 17, 2011
Rest in Peace...=-(
T D
February 17, 2011
RIP Uncle Leo. "Helloooooooooo"
AARON O'DWYER
February 17, 2011
I AM SO VERY SORRY FOR THE DEATH IN YOUR FAMILY YOUR FAMILY IS IN MY PRATERS AT THIS TIME OF NEED
Jan Brown
February 17, 2011
Rest in Peace Uncle Leo.....we love you and we'll always remember you.
Another Fan
February 17, 2011
Character actors are so often overlooked and yet they add such depth and layering to any show no matter the genre. Mr. Lesser was one of the truly great ones and I thank him for sharing his gift with all of us.
February 17, 2011
Good bye, Uncle Leo
Charles Thomas
February 17, 2011
RIP, loved him in Kellys Heroes,its one of my favorites
Tom D
February 17, 2011
I can just picture them up in Heaven, led by Joe Boyle, raising their arms and saying, "Hey Len's here, Ha ha!" Rest in Peace, sir.
Donnie Donahue
February 17, 2011
my condolences to the Lesser famliy LEN was a FUNNY MAN/actor i own about every seinfeld seasons may He rest in peace he will be missed by the seinfeld fans
Bill Anderson
February 17, 2011
Uncle Leo was the kind of man that us Boomers related to. A great neighbor and an even greater friend. He was someone who'd keep an eye on you and keep you straight. If you learned nothing from him, then something was wrong with you!
Rest in Peace our fine friend!
Heaven better have a good place for you.
February 17, 2011
My profound condolences to the family. Mr. Lesser, I'll always remember you as "Garvin" on the Raymond series. Thank you for making me laugh, and thereby adding years to my life.
Rest in peace, dear man.
From, A Fan
Margie & Claude Pelletier
February 17, 2011
Dear Uncle Leo, we just loved you on Seinfeld. You were such a great actor. Our condolences to your family, they were so fortunate to have you. We will never forget you, & can still enjoy seeing you on Seinfeld, when we watch it every night. Rest in Peace, Uncle Leo.
Brad C.
February 17, 2011
We will miss you "Uncle Leo" ! You entertained us for many years. God bless the family.
February 17, 2011
Rest in Peace to our UNCLE LEO.
Robin
February 17, 2011
Michele, your dad was so great to me when we were in jr high & high school. He always had a hug and smile for me when I was having such a hard time with my own dad. I remember how the poor man let me cry all over him one day when I thought my teen-age world was ending. As great as he was on TV and in movies, that is what I'll always remember.
The Long Family
February 17, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jon Butz
February 17, 2011
Everyone has a Uncle Leo but you are the Best. I known in Haven you will keep them laughing also. God Bless you.
D S
February 17, 2011
Rest in Peace Uncle Leo!
Karen
February 17, 2011
I don't doubt that there are already so many in front of mine to send condolences. Although not personally knowing the gentleman, you can appreciate the appearance he brought to the television shows, which included Seinfeld. Thank goodness for reruns every night, he will live on in our living room.
Respectfully,
Evelyn H
February 17, 2011
To the Family: Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. I have often found comfort from reflecting on what is written at John 5:28,29. I sincerely hope this thought will bring a measure of comfort and hope to your family.
M S
February 17, 2011
Uncle Leo! Hellloooo!
and Goodbye Sir...
You will be missed!
Thank you for all the laughs.
:D
Carol Brockman Castro
February 17, 2011
Thank you to the family for sharing Mr. Lesser with us throughout his long and distinguised career. I have seen him in countless t.v. shows and he will be missed! He must be cracking them up, up there!!! My condolences to the family, and thank you again.
Bridget Grady
February 17, 2011
I can see Uncle Leo entering heaven and saying "HELLOOOOOOOO" as he did in the Seinfeld episodes. A very funny man. Thank you for your gift of bringing us laughter.
February 17, 2011
I loved seeing Mr Lesser on Seinfeld as Uncle Leo, he played that role
so well, so believeable. Rest In Peace Linda Zastocki (Howell Nj)
Wes Bundy
February 17, 2011
Uncle Leo, Heavens trash cans will bring new finds for you and much laughter for your heavenly audience.
February 17, 2011
Being introduced to you in Kelly's Heroes, I've enjoyed your many memorable performances since then, especially in Seinfeld and Raymond. Rest in peace, your work will keep your memory alive for a long time.
Bob Walker
New Orleans
tony g
February 17, 2011
R I P Uncle leo !!!!!!!!!
Dan B
February 17, 2011
God Bless Mr Lesser. Anyone who can make millions laugh and smile is OK in my book. He had a great gift. I hope he gets to steal as many books as he wants. Thanks to his family for sharing him with us all.
David Crowe
February 17, 2011
I don't watch many sit-coms but I remember him. A great funny man that will be missed.
February 17, 2011
HOW ABOUT FINDING THE WALLET THAT JERRYS FATHER THREW AWAY, AND THE WATCH. JUST GREAT EPISODES. R.I.P. UNCLE LEO MIKE TIERNEY NORTH TONAWANDA NY
Victoria&Andrew VZj
February 17, 2011
Our Condolences to 'LEN'
Thanks for the family show
of Brillant comedy'Upon
Intro Seinfield!
of many more Movies
TriStar'Fox metro of many
friends with in Association~
Rip ~Len~
Mike Lentz
February 17, 2011
You were great in anything...loved you in "Kelly's Heroes" & "Everybody Loves Raymond"...you were a funny & class act. Thanks for the great memories.
Libby Butler
February 17, 2011
Sad to see you leave us, Mr. Lesser. Enjoyed sharing a little bit of your life with you.
Red
February 17, 2011
Sad to see this guy go...
Jeff Holloway
February 17, 2011
I never new this wonderful mans name until now - I will miss him. Rest in Peace Sir!
Pamela Slocum
February 17, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
STEVIE
February 17, 2011
My Family calls my Uncle Kevin " Uncle Leo " Due To the Uncle Leo " HELLO " Uncle Leo Will be Missed.
Gail Siegel
February 17, 2011
Condolences to the Lesser Family for their loss.
Rest In Peace, Len Lesser. You will be missed.
JJ
February 17, 2011
" Jerry, Hello "
Lisa Beth
February 17, 2011
I had the pleasure of seeing him on stage in San Diego. Serious role (a rabbi). So different from any character I saw him play on Seinfeld or Raymond. Terrific actor! He will be missed.
james willner
February 17, 2011
May the eternal light shine upon him....
February 17, 2011
Uncle Leo - sorry to see you pass on; and hope you find a better place. Thanks for the laughs............................................................
B T
February 17, 2011
Keep them Laughing UP THERE.
Stephen Comency
February 17, 2011
Rest in peace Len. Thank you for the entertainment. You have replaced Sam as America's Uncle.
Chuck Shea
February 17, 2011
Another great actor has left us. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent with us all and thanks for all the wonderful memories you created.
February 17, 2011
"I ain't your pa boy!"
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