CHARLES MELNIKER

MELNIKER--Charles, a business affairs executive at Creative Artists Agency, died March 13 after a battle with lung cancer. He died at home surrounded by family. Melniker was 60. Melniker started his legal career at the United Artists Corporation as associate counsel; he then transitioned to RCTV/The Entertainment Channel. In 1983, Melniker moved with his family to Los Angeles to work at ICM and later Columbia Pictures. In 1990, Melniker opened his own management firm, Melniker Management, representing writers, directors, actors and producers. He joined CAA in 2001. According to the CAA partners, he was a beloved figure in the halls of the agency. "We have lost a dear friend who was beloved by all who had the great fortune to know him," the partners said in a statement. "Charles was not merely a remarkably talented and widely admired colleague, but an inspiration as well. His relentless optimism, passion for his work, and devotion to his family and friends were regular reminders to us all of what it means to embrace and enjoy life. Our hearts go out to Charles' loving family at this incredibly difficult time. he will be deeply missed." Melniker is survived by his wife, Nadine; his daughter Avital and her husband, David Berman; his daughter Sophie and her husband, Matthew Shuman; his daughter Lara; his granddaughter Zoe Berman; his brother Harvey; and his parents Benjamin and Shirley. He is further survived by adoring nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.