Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Steve Landesberg
Steve Landesberg
Obituary
Guest Book
Steve Landesberg Obituary
But younger audiences knew him too — for a slew of recent parts such as the doctor on the 2008 hit movie "Forgetting Sarah Marshall."
The veteran actor died Monday at age 65, his agent, Jeffrey Leavitt, told The Associated Press. The cause of death wasn't released.
Landesberg appeared in dozens of TV shows, his curly haired, bespectacled face easily recognizable. Recent credits included "Everybody Hates Chris," ''Just Jordan," ''That 70s Show" and "American Dad."
"He was a wonderful comic and superb actor who gave so much of himself in every performance," said Shirley Jones, who appeared opposite Landesberg in what was one of his final appearances, an episode of "The Cleaner" last year.
His most successful role was that of Dietrich on "Barney Miller, which was set in a New York City police station populated by oddballs and eccentrics. It aired from 1975 to 1982.
Landesberg's Dietrich was noted for his endless knowledge and expertise on seemingly every obscure subject imaginable, which was coupled with a sometimes patronizing attitude. He once refused to wish a Happy Thanksgiving to a fellow officer, explaining he was an agnostic and wouldn't know who to thank.
In "Forgetting Sarah Marshall," he listened patiently as Marshall's former boyfriend described a sexual tryst, then revealed he was really a pediatrician.
Landesberg also played a doctor in the TV series "Head Case," which aired from 2007 to 2009.
Other TV credits included "The Rockford Files," ''Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place," ''Cosby," ''Law and Order" and "The Golden Girls."
Information on survivors was not immediately available.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
225 Entries
Claire
October 17, 2024
He is forever carried in my heart and mind
Kai
January 11, 2024
After seeing Barney Miller and noticing Dietrich this character has led me to discover Steve Landesberg. Ever since then I wanted to know more about him. Eventually learning that he was such a gracious man and actor who worked hard to make it in life has really impressed me. I wish I got to know him personally, but the different accounts I´ve come across on the wonderful interactions of Steve have solidified my admiration for him. My condolences for everyone because we all miss such an amazing person.
Tommy Oliver
October 9, 2023
I watch you every night as I watched you when I was younger. You may be gone,but you are not will you ever be forgotten. Rest in peace !
Geraldine Cummings
January 16, 2023
I saw Steve Landisberg doing Stand-up comedy, at the University of Redlands, in Redlands, California.
Circa 1973. He was great, funny, and highly educational performance. His dry with captivated the audience. I am saddened to hear of his passing.
How you can show support
Mary Slater
June 24, 2021
He had me laughing when they came to give him lie detector and he said he’s from another planet may he Rest In Peace
P. H.
May 28, 2020
After this long of time ,I just learned of his death --- loved his character on Barney Miller and still gives me a smile with his quick comebacks over things! So very sorry he left us, but I am sure he is sharing a cup of coffee no and then with Jack Soo. ( Ron Glass is still fighting on an apt . * now in the sky * ) :-) Thanks so much for the laughs!! R.I.P. ,Steve. enjoyed the memories ya left behind for us all! See ya on the other side.....
Barbara Juarez
March 2, 2020
I still love watching Barney Miller. Steves quick wit. I laugh watching show , makes me feel good .
September 13, 2019
God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the Family's... My condolences to the Family's....
TONYA
September 8, 2019
Was remembering today watching Steve perform at the Comedy Store. He always made me laugh so hard...the minute he walked out on the stage, I fell apart. I could not control it. He liked that (of course). Haven't laughed that hard since. Don't need to say that he is truly missed. Rest in peace. Maybe he will make me laugh again on the other side.
Debbie Robinson
August 1, 2019
What an amazing actor l love Barney Miller still watch the show til this day when they put all you guys together couldn't get a better cast then you guys.to bad Abe vigoda(fish) left). What a show it would've been with Steve and Abe up against each other would've been way to funny.love all the cast and you will be missed
Guest
April 26, 2019
To the family and friends of Mr. Landesburg, I hope these delayed responses show that there is a continued-interest in the comedic works of your loved one and friend.
To my loved ones that have passed on, be you family or friend, please make a warm welcome for this friend I have never met, Mr. Steve Landesburg.
Tina Raptis
August 22, 2018
Part of the Barney Miller family, and oh what a family it was! That whole cast was meant for each other. Superior acting and so much fun and laughter! That show and those characters are a part of our lives, a better part. Others have passed well may each and everyone of them rest in peace!
Louise Carreiro
May 22, 2018
Rest in peace mr. Landesberg I've always enjoyed your talent as an actor and a comedian I will miss you
Pam Gallagher
March 14, 2018
To Mr. Landesberg's family and friends I send my sincerest condolences on Steve's passing. Please know that he continues to bring real joy to people's lives through his truly funny and exceptional performances. Thanks to DVDs, etc his unique gifts to bring smiles to the faces of millions won't be lost. I wish I could have sat down to coffee with him for just a few minutes. I hope all of you know how much he continues to be appreciated.
Judith Conigliaro
December 19, 2017
Watching reruns of Barney Miller and decided to look up the cast. Didn't know that Steve Landesberg had passed. Very sorry to find this out. He was an outstanding actor and comedian and must say that Barney Miller was a show I never ever missed and his character was one of my favorite as he added a wry sense of humor to the script, a rare talent in today's messed up acting world. Thank you for your talent, Steve and may you rest in peace with the Lord.
December 15, 2017
I really enjoy watching him on the show barney miller. my dad is 79 and loves this show. always watching it. I like the way he was so smart on the show.
Gale Peetros
June 4, 2017
Rip I loved seeing you on golden girls you willed be missed
January 21, 2017
Thank you for the laughter, thank you for the integrity.
Valenda Newell
October 19, 2016
RIP TO A BEAUTIFUL ANGEL...MANY PRAYERS & BLESSINGS
Jim Friedman
August 31, 2016
God bless you
Dave Larkin
August 2, 2016
Still loved and missed.
Allison Dupont
March 8, 2016
Never forgotten, Rest in Peace sir.
Darlene Granditsch
March 1, 2016
Dear Steve: Thank you for a job well done. We loved your low voice and infectious laugh. There will never be another one like you! We will miss you. March 1,2016 Darlene Granditsch Buffalo, New York
SHIRLEY CRABTREE
August 2, 2015
DEAR STEVE, YOU WERE THE BEST!
Grady Youngblood
June 17, 2015
Steve Landesberg is the Greatest Actor on the Tv Series" Barney Miller.
Grady Youngblood
June 17, 2015
Steve Landesberg is th Greatest Actor on the Tv Series"Barney Miller"
Harry Simpson
December 20, 2014
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Gary W. Kelly
November 9, 2013
Apparently I find no mention of him in a TV sit-com series pilot "Black Bart" a spinoff of the Mel Brooks produced "BLAZING SADDLES". Landesberg played a deputy to Lou Gossett's Sheriff character.
Rita DeGrazia
September 1, 2013
Go away beverly is busy.
He will be missed.
Lisa Weiner
March 9, 2013
To Steve Landesburg,
You were a very talented actor. I enjoyed watching you in the sitcom Barney Miller. My prayers and thoughts go to you and your family. Lisa Weiner
Michael Landesberg
September 21, 2012
Another Landesberg gone too soon. RIP.
Elaine Alexander
May 28, 2012
I only recently learned that Steve is gone. I feel so sad that we (all of us) lost this person. It is as tho' I knew him personally. Something about the characters he portrayed reached out to me and I feel bad that he is not on our planet at this time. Luckily he lives on in all the films and TV roles left to us. My heart goes out to his family...how hard to lose such a person...
Marianne, Allegra and Tony Farina
December 29, 2010
To Nancy and Elizabeth,
Our deepest sympathies to you both. We remember first meeting Steve when he came to the apartment to pick up Lizzie who was having a play-date with Allegra. He couldn't have been more gracious - or funny - while Tony was trying to figure out why he looked so familiar! Little did we know.
As we came to know the family, we knew success and talent couldn't have been given to a nicer person.
You are in our thoughts and prayers, The Farina Family (P.S.6)
December 28, 2010
He was a great actor. I enjoyed seeing him act.May he rest in peace,and my condolences to his family. may god bless his soul.
C. MAE BURTON-JOHNSON
December 27, 2010
TO THE LANDESBERG FAMILY,
STEVE WAS ONE OF MY FAVORITE ACTORS AND HE HAD A BEAUTIFUL SPEAKING VOICE. I WAS SAD TO HEAR OF HIS PASSING MAY YOU FIND COMFORT IN THE MEMORIES THAT YOU SHARED WITH HIM. AND KNOW THAT HE IS MISSED BY HIS FANS AND LOVED! I AND MY FAMILY PRAY FOR YOU AT THIS TIME AND HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO FIND STRENGTH THAT HE IS AT PEACE.
WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY,
MS. C.MAE BURTON-JOHNSON &FAMILY HOU.TX
Steve Newvine
December 27, 2010
I remember an episode of the Mike Douglas show in the early 1970's and Mike introduces a hip new comic who does several minutes of what we would call observational humor. You were groundbreaking then. One never knows how many comedians have achieved success following in your footsteps. I can thing of at least a dozen and there are probably many, many more.
Ellie Moniz
December 27, 2010
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
December 27, 2010
Steve was truly an actor's actor, and was a joy to watch on the various shows...He was so good on Barney Miller..A great loss to the industry..but a great gain to heaven....my sympathies to his family.(Eileen,NJ)
December 27, 2010
Funny, wonderful man who always seemed so gentle even as he was saying such dark and sarcastic things... My favorite movie with him in it is the little known "Sodbusters" in which he played Gunther Schteuppin. One of my favorite movies of all time and he was wonderful in it... Weird to write in memories for someone I only knew on the screen, but he brought so much laughter to my life; and laughter is always the best medicine; he will have an honorary Dr. degree wherever he goes!
December 26, 2010
Steve was one of my Favorite Comedians, way back when we could only watch 3 TV channels.
Lord Saint Dennis Charles Smart
Jenny Harper
December 26, 2010
I'm so very sorry to hear of Steve's death. I loved to watch him as an actor, esp. on Barney Miller. He was funny. Rest in peace. May your family and friends find comfort in Jesus who Loves everyone. The Lord draws near as a shephard to those that ask Him. He knocks at the door and waits, but will only enter if you open the door. God Bless you all.
Emil
December 26, 2010
What a loss. Steve was truly an artist, he was a great comedian. I first saw Steve do his standup routine, he was terribly funny and creative. He will be missed.
Bill Carroll
December 26, 2010
My most sincere sympathy to the family, friends and fans of this wonderful actor. He had great timing and a very entertaining sense of wry humor. I am sure he will even make the angels above laugh. I enjoyed him best on Barney Miller and he will be missed by many.
December 26, 2010
Thanks for the memories.
The Garcia Family
December 26, 2010
You will be missed Mr. Landesberg. Your humor and wit were needed elsewhere. May you rest in peace. May your family find comfort in prayers and memories knowing you were loved by so many.
December 26, 2010
Deitrich is taking a statement from a woman in the station house. She mentions the ballet Swan Lake is in town.Of course Deitrich expounds on the event stating that some people consider Swan Lake the be the ultimate in artistic expression.
The Lady says "Are you attending tonight ?"
Deitrich says "Nah--- I got hockey tickets"
Tom Driscoll
December 26, 2010
Deitrich is taking a statement from a woman in the station house. She mentions the ballet Swan Lake is in town.Of course Deitrich expounds on the event stating that some people consider Swan Lake the be the ultimate in artistic expression.
The Lady says "Are you attending tonight ?"
Deitrich says "Nah--- I got hockey tickets"
Micki Just Micki
December 25, 2010
Knowing many police officers and some from NY they would always say, "Barney Miller is like the closest thing to real duty." Of course, this was back a few years when it was mostly thugs and not terrorists.
Steve, you were special. Thanks for great memories. Peace.
Floyd Payton
December 25, 2010
We will miss you Mr. Landesberg, I was able to him back in the mid '80's when he shot his movie "Leader Of the Band", he was a very funny and adoring man of high intelligence, my friends and I were able to be a part of the movie, front row seats in the final scenes (I'm the one in the gray sweater/ jacket), he had told us of him and his wife recently moving to the Atlanta area, and expecting a baby.
We'll see you soon, as you are now entertaining in Heaven !
Victoria&Andrew VZj
December 25, 2010
Our Condolences to
the LandesBerg family
Many Directors film
Associates
What a Kind man
with much humor
love laughter
Steve will be missed
Thank you for the Tvshow
oldtime many`Favorites
'BarneyMiller Icon..
In memory of SteveLandesBerg~
SUSAN ELLIOTT
December 25, 2010
MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY AT THIS TIME HOUR HE WILL BE MISSED THANK YOU FOR THE SERIES I USED TO WAT CH IT
JOSEPH GILLETTE
December 25, 2010
STEVE WAS A FUNNY GUY LOVED BARNEY MILLER I'M SAD TO SEE THESE GUYS GO STEVE WAS THE THIRD. AND FISH IS STILL HANGING IN THERE. RIP
Ron George
December 25, 2010
I mourn his loss....He brought much joy to my life. I will always treasure the handwritten letter he wrote me years ago. I will always appreciate the time and thought he took to answer.
M. TERRY
December 24, 2010
RIP Mr Landesberg. I ready enjoyed you on BARNEY MILLER. You will be in great company with all the other great comics we have losed. GOD BLESS his family. He will be missed.
maudeana strumph
December 24, 2010
Grief can be so hard during the holidays, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one this holiday season.
Mary Jeffers
December 24, 2010
Remembering Steve: You made us laugh. When you would say something that others didn't understand, you would look at them until they figured it out. You will be surely missed. Now you can make God and the angels laugh.
Leslie Nielsen will help you make them laugh.
roberta lucas
December 24, 2010
I am so sorry to read about Steve. He was one of my favorites. He made any show a real experience. I loved him.
Julie Corben
December 24, 2010
My dad and I loved to watch Barney Miller and I especially loved Mr. Landesberg as Dietrich. I am so sorry for your family's loss. He was certainly appreciated for his humor at our house. He will be missed.
Roberta Rey
December 24, 2010
I worked at the Comedy Store, at the height of Barney Miller, Mr Landesberg would stop by to test out a comedy routine in a stand up form. He was very funny, gracious and kind to those comics trying to make it. I know his family will miss him very much, my sympathy to you and my thanks for sharing such a funny guy with the rest of us...
jean orcutt
December 24, 2010
I'm very sorry for your loss. I watched the barney miller show as a teenager and thought that steve was very funny. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. ......Jeannie (Brockton,Ma)
Caroline Witherspoon
December 24, 2010
To The Landesberg Family,
I just happened to be checking my local obits and saw Mr. Landesberg's picture I was in total shock. I have enjoyed watching him through out his career especially on "Barney Miller" and other shows through out the years. He will surely be missed by all but not forgotten. Mr. Landesberg you can REST IN PEACE now.
With All Our Deepest Sympathies,
The Witherspoon Family
December 24, 2010
Those we love left us gifts in the form of memories that no one can take away, wisdom that we can still recall. These are the things that we shall cherish forever. May the family of Steve Landesberg continue to look to Almighty God for comfort during this difficult time. Because God is a refuge and strength, a help that is readily to be found during distresses.
Thomas McEvoy
December 24, 2010
"Studies have shown that Steve Landesberg was definitely under rated as one of the Great Comedians of our Time!" Rest in peace... thanks for your humour...you will be missed.......
December 24, 2010
Very funny comedian.
Tony Tucci
December 23, 2010
A true comic genius who could make you laugh without saying a single word
Michael C
December 23, 2010
He gave me so many laughs. Who wouldn't want him as your neighbor?? Night Detective.
an ex cop from Illinois
rodney wood
December 23, 2010
steve had a mellow sense of humor that made barney miller an even funnier comedy he will be well missed my sympathies to his family.
December 23, 2010
Steve, you made my heart laugh. Rest in Peace.....Jean from Tn.
J T
December 23, 2010
BARNEY MILLER WAS A GREAT SITCOM AND MR. LANDSESBERG MADE IT EVEN BETTER.
The Greenstone Family
December 23, 2010
We would like to express our deep sympathy and sincere condolences at this time of great sorrow. Our prayers are with all who truly loved an cared about him. He was a very talented actor. He will be missed.
Jack Knight
December 23, 2010
Long before he became identified with the Barney Miller show,I knew Steve as one of a group of aspiring performers, like myself, "paying our dues" till all hours at the Impovisation Comedy Club in N.Y.C.Steve was singularly funny in his stand up act but even better as part of an ensemble. His work with the house comedy group, The Ace Trucking Company, was terrific and the experience served him well on Barney Miller.We've lost a great talent and more importantly, a very nice guy. You and Ron Cary and Jack Soo must be having a hell of a reunion.
December 23, 2010
His performances gave me great pleasure. I even loved his Jos A Bank commercials. He was a class guy! Bob from Natick
Jill Kazanecki
December 23, 2010
On Barney Miller he was the original (but smarter) Cliff Claven. He was a joy to watch.
Rey Criollo
December 23, 2010
Dear Steve. Thanks for the laughs, you were my favorite on Barney Miller. No one can top your take-off on Gregory Peck. Keep 'em laughing, my friend.
Jones Family
December 23, 2010
Our sincere condolences to the family. May your memories bring you comfort and strength during this difficult time.
(2 Corinthians 1:3,4)
Shari Washington
December 23, 2010
To Steve~I remember you best from the Barney Miller series. I always thought that your character had just enough 'arrogance' to balance your kind of humor. I loved it. "Dietrich" was annoying indeed, but if one was honest with oneself, they had to concede that he always knew what he was talking about..because he did. RIP Steve, I know you have the angels rolling in the clouds...LITERALLY!!
Nia Walker
December 23, 2010
Loved your dry wit, on Barnie Miller, "Life's race, well run, life's crown well won..NOW comes rest!
Watson Conrad
December 23, 2010
As Deitrich Seve added an intellectual role to audiences used to pretty faces and shallow humor. We love the show. Jeff Goldblum and Steve are the only actors able to pull off an intellectual coup d'état and did it with fondness and humor. So sad to lose a great one.
Sherry
December 23, 2010
How sad. Rest in peace.
Carol Lewis
December 22, 2010
Such a funny and talented actor! He was one of my favorite and will be missed! God bless you, his family and fans! God bless.
Scott Crumley
December 22, 2010
My Goodness, what a loss. I loved this man's work and I respected his professional talent as an actor. He will be missed. When you have someone who was a part of your life as was Steve Landesberg, pass from this world, you know that there will be a hole left in humanity. God Rest His Soul! We will miss you. SC Tx
Shelby Dawkins
December 22, 2010
RIP, Steve
December 22, 2010
To Dearest Steve,
your true endless talent was cut off too soon, too underated,and too great to be forgotten.
I think GOD WAS JEALOUS OF US HERE ON EARTH; ...........HE WANTED YOU THERE !
JT. Az.
atrue
December 22, 2010
One of my favorite TV shows is "Barney Miller" and Steve Landesberg always cracked me up!
J. Guider
December 22, 2010
Mr. Landesberg's legacy is the tremendous laughter he brought into the world and in the fullness of his life. May the laughter live on ... God bless you Steve.
David Urrutia
December 22, 2010
He was a very talented comic who, unfortunately, was seen too little in the last decade. One of the best stand-up comics I ever saw.
RIP
December 22, 2010
thank you for the time we had together way back when. I will never forget you. i find myself brokenhearted. you were one in a million. xxx
JoAnne Turner
December 22, 2010
You've joined that club in the sky. Somehow it seems too many are leaving on their journey to the sky. May your next journey bring you much joy and happiness. RIP Steve, you brought a lot of laughter to so many.
Anthony Garth
December 22, 2010
I will miss his comedy.
Alan C
December 22, 2010
I was in the natiomal guard with Steve (back in the 60's) and he made it fun to be there. Our two weeks summer camp every year was totally bearable with his comedy. He will be missed. My condolences to his family and close frieds.
December 22, 2010
Mr. Steve Landesburg leaves behind many
memories of his acting days. May his
remembered friendship, love and support
put a smile on our faces and never will
we allow our fond memories extinghuish.
(Rev. 21:3,4).
December 22, 2010
Steve Gone but thanks to reruns NEVER Forgotten Thanks for a life well lived making us laugh and forget our cares if only briefly Lee & Maria Schamberger
Debe Z
December 22, 2010
Thank you for making me laugh....Bless you and your family during this time.
Martha Dolciamore
December 22, 2010
His character on "Barney Miller"...Dietrich, was one of my favorites. Bless you ~ rest in peace...
Hope
December 22, 2010
I enjoyed watching you in Barney Miller. RIP.
liz chandler
December 22, 2010
Thank you for the laughter and smiles on the Barney Miller show you were a great team player! God Bless You and your family ! Elisabeth and Jim Chandler
Shirley Gooch
December 22, 2010
To the Family of Mr. Steven Landesberg
May you be comforted by your memories and the knowledge that Mr. Landesberg gave such laughter to the world. Lean on the God that gives comfort in a great way.
Tami W
December 22, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Showing 1 - 100 of 225 results
Make a Donation
in Steve Landesberg's name
How to support Steve's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Steve Landesberg's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored