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Richard Stahl Obituary
Stahl died Sunday at the Motion Picture and Television Fund's health center in Woodland Hills after a 10-year battle with Parkinson's disease, his wife, actress Kathryn Ish, said Wednesday.
"He had been declining for some time now," she said.
Born in Detroit, Stahl did magic tricks as a boy and moved to California as a performer at age 15, Ish said. He served in the Army during the Korean War, later graduating from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.
Ish and Stahl were both off Broadway theater actors when they met in 1959. They married later that year.
In the 1960s, the pair moved to San Francisco and joined improv comedy group The Committee, Ish said. They settled in Santa Barbara in 1975.
Stahl's film credits include 1979's "Five Easy Pieces," Mel Brooks' 1977 spoof "High Anxiety," 1980's "9 to 5" and 1996's "Ghosts of Mississippi."
He appeared on such TV shows as "Laverne and Shirley," "The Odd Couple," and "Barney Miller," and held a regular stint on 1980s sitcom "It's A Living."
"He was a funny guy, he worked in comedy all his life," Ish said.
Stahl is survived by Ish, their daughter Allegra and son Oliver.
Memorial services were pending.
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
58 Entries
Annie and Charles D
January 9, 2016
R.I.P Richard. Fantastic actor..we admire all your work.
Steve Platt
March 19, 2014
Lived in Santa Barbara in the eighties and he loved to play a good game of pool on cliff dr...thanks for being a regular guy...
Eileen Martello-Gillette
July 5, 2011
Richard's wife Kathryn was my first cousin once removed so I guess Richard is that too by marriage. I am the self appointed family historian and have spent many hours with this family if only on paper. Richard and Kathryn both live on in my heart and the heart of all of those who loved them and the great work they did. If anyone knows where they are buried I would very much like to pay my formal respects, although late, better late than never. [email protected]
Daniel Roebuck
February 22, 2011
I am sorry that I am so late to this wake.I have admired Richard Stahl's acting for many years and ,sadly, learned of his passing while searching for him on IMDB. His perfect comic timing is so evident on his many television appearances. My favorites were his wonderful guest spots on THE ODD COUPLE! My son, Buster, and I watch them every night (on DVD) and we count Richard Stahl's episodes as the funniest. God Bless him for all of the laughs he created.
How you can show support
April 2, 2010
For Richard...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Cindy Hogan
February 2, 2007
I just learned that Mr.Stahl passed and I was very saddened. He was a great actor and a wonderful person.I was a childhood friend of his daughter Allegra and Mr.Stahl was always kind to me. He loved to pick on me when I would tell him I saw him on TV. God Bless Mrs.Stahl, Allegra, and Oliver.
Frank Stahl
October 26, 2006
Frank Stahl
roger
July 10, 2006
He was so memorable in so many roles. He was someone you loved to watch.
Jeff Bennett
July 10, 2006
I am sorry for your loss. My dad is now suffering from Parkinson's,an awful disease. I pray that your memories of better times will carry you through this time of loss. God bless you!
Janice Burgess
July 10, 2006
He was a beautiful human being,and a funny charater,god bless him and keep him util we all meet in heaven.God bless his family much love.
Wanda Bracy
July 7, 2006
I sure Richard, is with God in peace,looking down from Heaven,in no pain, just Thanking the Lord for the life he had here with his family, God Bless you forever.
July 7, 2006
To THE STAHL FAMILY WHEN I WOULD WATCH HIM ON LAVERINE & SHIRLY HE MADE ME LAUGH SO HARD. HE WILL BE MISSED DEEPLY. HE IS IN GOOD HAND'S AMEN A FAN (CHICAGO )
KIRK WILLIAMS
July 7, 2006
I LOVED HIS WORK AND HOLLYWOOD LOST THE EPITOME OF A CLASS ACT!MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO ALL FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
SOMEONE WHO YOU MADE LAUGH
July 7, 2006
THE LAUGHTER THAT YOU BROUGHT TO ALL OF US WILL BE THE WIND BENEATH YOUR WINGS AS YOU SOAR THROUGH THE HEAVENS. YOUR ESSENSE WILL SHINE ON THROUGH ALL OF THE TIMES. BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND COMFORT THEM IN THEIR LOSS, AS WITH ALL FAMILIES THAT YOU HAVE TOUCHED.
gloria snyder
July 7, 2006
i saw him in hie shows & he was great. he wikk be missed by all. my prayers gos out to his family & friends
Juanita Harden
July 6, 2006
May the tears in your eyes speak for the love that you have shared with him and may the sorrow in your heart speak for the joy that will never part.
Robin Sawyer
July 6, 2006
I loved watching movies and He was one of my favorites. He will be missed.
God will be with ya'll during this time.
My prayers are with ya'll.
ANDREW Szurley Sr.
July 6, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
EVELYN MORRIS
July 4, 2006
HIS FACE AND WORK ARE SO FAMILIAR TO ANYONE WHO HAS WATCHED TV..HIS WORK SPEAKS FOR ITSELF..
Robert Watkins
July 4, 2006
He was a funny man. God Bless his family.
DJ
June 29, 2006
Kathryn, Allegra and Oliver
my prayers go out to you.
I know that Richard had an
impact on many lives. May
our creator Jehovah be with you
all.
mary villalobos , rowan
June 29, 2006
you made life great for everyone you will be deeply missed. God bless
Bill &Shelley Townsell
June 26, 2006
We met the Stahl family by chance while kayaking down the Rogue in 1988. We'll never forget his kindness, generosity, and gentle nature.
garry goodrow
June 25, 2006
when that wind
blows through me (death)
I'll be something
no actor can play
all my much love, Kathryn
garry
LISA NICKERSON
June 25, 2006
TO MR STAHL FAMILY,
YOU HAVE MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY AT THIS LOSS. HE WAS A GREAT ACTOR. WE WILL MISS HIM. YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS AT THIS HOUR OF NEED
June 25, 2006
A wonderful comedian! My prayers are with his family.
Janie Dunn
June 25, 2006
To the family of Richard Stahl my deepest sympathy at this time. A great actor will now join others in God's house and just think of the laughter and the stories they are sharing. May God keep you and yours in His prayers and thoughts at this time.
David Ethridge
June 25, 2006
We have lost an under rated comedian. May God's Mercy be his family
Felix Korenek
June 25, 2006
I remember Richard Stahl in four Columbo's: he was so comfortable in those parts that he often up-staged everyone with sincerity and calm. What an actor!
BETTY RIVAS
June 24, 2006
TO THE STAHL FAMILY MAY GOD BE
WITH YOU ALWAYS.
Ricky Cooper
June 24, 2006
To the Stahl family: May God grant the soul of your love one with eternal peace.
Bill McAreavey
June 24, 2006
I never knew the man, but loved his work! Another great character actor that, sadly, we remember after they're gone! Very, very funny guy!! And I'm sure, a great man!
Kelly Jenkins
June 23, 2006
An awesome actor that made us feel as though we knew him. Thanks Richard!
Cynthia Franklin-Robinson
June 23, 2006
Very good actor, I remember him from when i was a little girl, If u did not know his name u still knew who he was when u saw his face. Blessings go out to him and his Family. Cynthia Franklin Long Island N.Y.
Verdella Bard
June 23, 2006
I'm am African-American woman that remembers this actor and some funny moments. He will be missed, and I wish the family strength through this time.
dorothy brown
June 23, 2006
my prayers are with Stahl family . He made everyone laugh that is true gift God bless you Richard Stahl
Tom Engle
June 23, 2006
It was my great pleasure to work with Dick on a film in the early 70's. He was a very funny man who always had a smile for everyone.
billy drake
June 23, 2006
he will really now find peace..bless his heart. he was a funny and special man...i only hope more people appreciated his wit and talent. my condolences to his remaining family.
GEORGIA SWAYZER
June 23, 2006
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Elizabeth Dominguez
June 23, 2006
I remember Richard Stahl from many of my favorite sitcoms growing up. Death can be a very difficult time for the living; having lost most of my family, I do understand your feelings of loss. Mr. Stahl is no longer in suffering though and free to make the heavens laugh now. He will wait for us all to join him when it is our time. Until then, peace be with his family and friends as they learn to cope with the loss of his physical being.
Karen
June 23, 2006
Sorry at the loss of Mr. Stahl. Another icon of an era gone... Hoping movies and t.v. of today will soon again hook onto "genuine funny", such as his performances! Too much garbage humor and language out there now.
Amen.
Lee Metcalf
June 23, 2006
Richard will be missed by everyone who enjoyed great comedy. I was a huge fan for many many years. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Steve Spiegel
June 23, 2006
The lot in life of a fine character actor is to have an unknown name and a familiar face. I saw Mr.Stahls photo and exclaimed, 'oh, THAT guy'! Terrific at portraying the uptight, establishment type...and a great, distinctive speaking voice. My condolences to his friends, family and all who loved him.
Melissa Stahl
June 23, 2006
I am sorry for the passing of a wonderful man. I had also lost someone this past Fathers day, my father, Thomas Lancaster Stahl. Maybe distant relatives joined together in Heaven with the good Lord. My blessings to everyone who loved Richard, I know he is home now at rest.
gerhard koehle
June 23, 2006
sorry for you loss
ALFRED MULLIGAN
June 23, 2006
GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMLIY!THANKYOU FOR BRINGING LAUGHTER AND JOY INTO THIS WORLD!
David A. Burgoyne
June 22, 2006
He was a fine actor and will be sadly missed.
My thoughts and prayers will be with his family.
Catherine Rodriguez
June 22, 2006
A wonderful actor who will be remembered for making us laugh.
My sympathies to his family and friends.
sherrell johnson
June 22, 2006
my deepest sympathy to the Stahl family.
Rachel
June 22, 2006
Sincerest thanks and gratitude to Ish, Allegra and Oliver for sharing Richard with us for so many years. His wit, charm and talent were great gifts to all who appreciate pure talent.
Rest peacefully, dear man.
sabrina bradshaw
June 22, 2006
you were a wonderful actor and will be greatly missed by all
Teresa Speaks
June 22, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jacci Furr
June 22, 2006
My Sympathies to his family, he was a very fine actor.
Emma Henderson
June 22, 2006
My sympathy to the family of this man with the great talent.He brought
much enjoyment to many of us who are
impressed by true talent.
Paul G. Dover Sr.
June 22, 2006
You were a wonderful actor. You will be with all the greats in heaven.
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