William Pierson

' Stalag 17 ' actor; 78

William Pierson, a raspy-voiced movie, television and stage actor perhaps best remembered for his role as Marko the Mailman in the Billy Wilder film classic " Stalag 17, " has died. He was 78.

Mr. Pierson died from respiratory problems Aug. 27 at Valley View Care Center in Newton, N.J., publicist Dale Olson said.

Mr. Pierson originally played Marko in the Broadway version of " Stalag 17, " the dark comedy-drama set in a prisoner-of-war camp in World War II Germany. Wilder brought him to Hollywood in 1953 to re-create the role for the film.

He also appeared on Broadway in " High Button Shoes, " " Make Mine Manhattan " and " Reuben, Reuben " and in a national touring company of " The Odd Couple. "

Other film credits included " Operation Madball " and " Fun With Dick and Jane. "

He had a long career in television, dating to the medium ' s Golden Age when he appeared on such shows as " Studio One " and " Kraft Theatre. "

He also had a recurring role on " Three ' s Company " as Dean Travers and appeared on such shows as " The Facts of Life, " " One Day at a Time, " " All in the Family " and " Diff ' rent Strokes. "

He is survived by his brothers, Jeffrey of New Jersey and Howard of Florida.