Steve Franken Obituary - Death Notice and Service Information

LOS ANGELES (AP) - The wife of Steve Franken says the veteran film and television actor has died.

Jean Franken says her husband, who starred in the 1960s TV series "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis" and as the drunken waiter in the film "The Party," died Aug. 24 after battling cancer.

The 80-year-old appeared in dozens of roles, ranging from guest appearances in TV series "Bewitched" and "Seinfeld" to film roles in "Nurse Betty" and 2009's "Angels and Demons." He was also a stage actor.

A public memorial is scheduled for Sept. 22 at Theatre West in Los Angeles.

Jean Franken says her husband never stopped working and loved acting.

Born in Queens in May 1932, Franken remained in LA throughout his career. He is survived by his wife and three daughters.

Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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It's been over 12 years since you passed, but I still think about you all the time. I never got to know you until years after you passed, six to be exact. Your performances have always fascinated me. You truly were an amazing actor, and I wish more people knew of you. Your work in Dobie, The Party, Perry Mason, and Bewitched were truly remarkable. Even in a bad movie, you were always one of the best parts of it. You always gave it your all. I hope you've found peace. If Jean and your children...

J.A.M. Whitaker

September 23, 2024

Enjoyed you in Many loves of Dobie Gillis. Just saw a rerun of Adam 12. The handling exercise with the rifle drill in Dobie Gillis was done by you and took talent .

Bill Jones

November 06, 2020 | Winston, GA

i loved watching you my entire life you were the best i will miss not seeing you on tv love to your wife and family

carolyn kelley

February 18, 2013 | Rancho Mirage, CA

To Steve Franken,
I watched you guest star on the sitcoms Bewitched, Seinfeld, and I watched you on the many lives of Dobey Gilles. You made me laugh. My prayers are with your family. God Bles you Mr. Franken. Lisa Weiner

Lisa Weiner

January 19, 2013 | Brooklyn, NY

We will truly miss Steve. He was a great actor. Our condolences to his family. He will be sorely missed. God bless.

Don & Alfreda Avelis

October 24, 2012 | Crete, IL

You have my deepest sympathy. May good memories provide solace for your family during this challenging time; and may God provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved one again in paradise. John 17:3

Angie

September 08, 2012 | Atlanta, GA

Sandy

September 04, 2012 | FL

You have my most sincere sympathy, in the death of your husband, father, and a very gifted actor. A smile always comes to me, when I think of him with Maynard G.. just one memory of an actor really good at his trade. The Good Lord provides us a way to be together again one day - and may remembering that, and many happy memories help you through the next while.

Pat

September 04, 2012 | OH

A good guy,a wonderful actor and a joy to work with.

Johnny Crear

September 02, 2012 | Simi Valley, CA

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