Robert Rockwell

Starred in ' Our Miss Brooks; ' 82

Robert Rockwell, who played Philip Boynton, the shy biology teacher and love interest for Eve Arden in the 1950s television sitcom " Our Miss Brooks, " has died, his family said. He was 82.

Mr. Rockwell, who had cancer, died Jan. 25 surrounded by relatives at his Malibu home, according to his wife, Elizabeth.

He was the second cast member from " Our Miss Brooks " to die last month. Richard Crenna, who played the squeaky-voiced student Walter Denton, died Jan. 17.

" Our Miss Brooks, " which began as a radio sitcom, was the most celebrated role of Mr. Rockwell ' s career. He was part of dozens of radio programs and appeared in more than 350 television shows spanning 50 years.

Among them were television sitcoms such as " Growing Pains " and " Diff ' rent Strokes, " daytime series such as " Search for Tomorrow " and " Days of Our Lives, " and Westerns, including his own series, " Man From Blackhawk. " He also guest-starred on " The Lone Ranger, " " The Loretta Young Show " playing Young ' s husband in each appearance " Perry Mason, " " Lassie, " " Newhart " and " Beverly Hills 90210. "

Beginning his film career as a contract player at Republic Pictures, Mr. Rockwell acted in more than 30 films, including " War of the Worlds. "

During his student years, Mr. Rockwell worked at the Pasadena Playhouse, where he received a masters degree as well as several student awards. He also appeared in the Broadway production of " Cyrano de Bergerac " with Jose Ferrer and at the La Jolla Playhouse in " A More Perfect Union, " co-starring Ginger Rogers. He most recently appeared on the stage opposite Charlton Heston in " The Caine Mutiny Court Martial. "

Mr. Rockwell ' s work in more than 200 commercials and voice overs was highlighted by a long-running television spot for Werthers Original Candy, portraying an armchair grandfather treating his grandson to a piece of candy.

He was a founding member of the California Artists Radio Theatre and lent his talents to many of their broadcasts.

Mr. Rockwell is survived by his wife of 60 years, five children, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.