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Charlie Callas Obituary
Callas died Thursday at a hospice, according to his sons Mark Callas and Larry Callas.
Callas was a rubber-faced, wiry framed comic whose rapid-fire delivery drew laughs and made him a frequent guest on variety and comedy shows.
"Everybody that met him, he left them with a smile," Mark Callas said.
For years, Charlie Callas made Johnny Carson laugh on the "Tonight Show." But Carson banned him from returning after Callas shoved Carson off his chair in a bid for laughs in 1982.
Mark Callas said his father knew every member of the Rat Pack, a group of actors that included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford.
Callas toured with Sinatra and Tom Jones, had a role with Jerry Lewis in the movie "The Big Mouth" in 1967, and was a guest on TV variety shows hosted by Jackie Gleason, Ed Sullivan, Merv Griffin, Andy Williams and Flip Wilson. Callas guest-hosted on the "Joey Bishop Show."
He also played restaurant owner Malcolm Argos in the 1970s TV series "Switch" with Robert Wagner and Eddie Albert, and had roles in Mel Brooks' films "High Anxiety" and "History of the World: Part I." He was also the voice of Elliot, the dragon in Disney's "Pete's Dragon."
Callas grew up in Brooklyn, N.Y., and served in the U.S. Army in Germany during World War II before beginning a career as a drummer with big bands starring Tommy Dorsey and Buddy Rich.
He was a natural comic, and it wasn't long before he gave up drumming for standup routines. He dropped a vowel from his legal name, Callias, when he took to the stage.
"He was just messing around with the guys and it worked, I guess," Mark Callas said.
He was Charlie Callas when he made his first television appearance in 1963 on the "Hollywood Palace" variety show.
Mark Callas, who produces the "American Superstars" celebrity impersonators show in Las Vegas, said he encouraged his parents to move to Las Vegas from New York in 2002.
Larry Callas said the death of his mother, Evelyn Callas in July at age 80, broke his father's heart.
Funeral arrangments were being made at Palm Mortuary in Las Vegas.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
Memories and Condolences
for Charlie Callas
245 Entries
Michael Sinclair
September 16, 2024
Was just watching the Big Mouth and decided to look up Charlie and found out he was gone, sorry to hear that, he was a very talented and funny entertainer who will be missed but blessed are we to still be able to see the many films great times and all the laughs forever memorialized through film,
Mark Folineo
June 24, 2024
I met Mr. Callas on several occasions when I worked at Centaur Firearms in Lodi, NJ in the early 70's. Of course I knew of his celebrity. He was an hilarious comedian! Most of all he was a lovely and warm man who was very giving of his time to just an ordinary kid in his early 20's.
May 24, 2024
Mr. Charlie Calla trick shooter
Cheyenne
May 24, 2024
My condolence to the callas family. I met your father and your mother couple months before they pass away. Mr. Charley Callas and his wife, Evelyn Callas. how many people known about Charley Callas How many people? How many people known Charley Callas is a marksmanship and showmanship . He did shows at Caesars Palace . Please contact me, MARK Callas
beverly lawrence
April 26, 2022
what a wonderful comedian
Bruce Austin
June 23, 2021
Thank you Charlie from the bottom of my heart. You made my life better. I still watch videos of you and laugh as hard as ever. My eternal gratitude for your wonderful comedy. Love you.
Charles May II
June 28, 2019
I was reviewing my father's discography, and found out that Mr. Callas played drums for my father, and they appeared together on the Arthur Godfrey Talent Search show in 1958. I was so sorry to hear of his passing. I have numerous photos and even the Arthur Godfrey show's original record. Would love to share if desired. Many Blessings, and again am sorry to hear this news.
Bobby Sherwood
September 6, 2018
Sorry to say, I never met the man. He wasn't exactly in my time. But I see so much of him in myself the way I perform and even just go about my day making people laugh at anything, right out of thin air. Charlie was very underrated as far as I'm concerned and never got nearly enough air time as he did. And only this year, did I even know that he not only played the drums, but he was a master at it. Far better than many of those who are referred to as the best. He was an unsung hero when it comes to that. But he remains an inspiration to me. Respect, Charlie! You will always have mine.
Anne Rollins
December 19, 2014
Charlie occasionally bought gas at the Ft. Lee, NJ, gas station where my son worked back in the early 80's. Whenever Christopher came home from work he could barely control the laughter that Charlie caused and always looked forward to serving Charlie.
Rosemary Richards
June 16, 2013
I met Charlie in the late 80's as a Realtor in Ca- a cold call in my Glendale office! What a treat- I'll never forget- he was "on" 95% of the 3 days I toured him around- I think he was anticipating a series with Lucille Ball- & the RE market was going down- I said "rent not buy" it was a privilege & an honor to have been entertained by him for 3 straight days- he was also a very kind, gracious man. I've read all these entries and its heartwarming to know how many lives he impacted in the most joyous way. I'm so sorry he is no longer with you, but you will see him again. Kindest regards to his family,
March 7, 2013
My sympathies to the Callas families. Mr. Callas was a brilliant and talented man. He is now a brand new star in the sky forever more.
Sincerely, Tina Freda, a Fan.
Jean-PIerre Barrette
December 5, 2012
A bright, lovable, irreplaceable candle has been extinguished.
Just seeing his picture brings back so many hilarious memories. One of my favorites was Charlie in a knit cap doing his impression of Jacques Cousteau. Tears of sadness and joy.
J Dunbar
August 30, 2012
I can't tell you enough how Charlie made us (my whole family) laugh so hard whenever he guest starred on a t.v. show--I never missed a chance to watch him! I am grateful we have YouTube to be able to watch some of his wonderful appearances. Rest in peace, Charlie--we love you!
Nicole Iasilli
August 26, 2012
Dear callas family. Hi my name is Nicole Im so sorry for your loss. Charlie was an amazing and funny comic. I watch him on YouTube. The roasts. He's the best. God bless him and the family. R.i.p he will be missed.
Nicole Iasilli
August 25, 2012
Hi my name is Nicole iasilli. My mom"s aunt was a callas. We are related. I watch him on YouTube he is amazing and funny. He makes me laugh in tears. He is the best. God bless him and his family R.I.P
Cindy Hunter
April 11, 2012
I recall fun times with my mom as we would watch Dean Martin roasts. Our favourite one was where he was wearing the football helmet. Mom and I cracked up...tears running down our cheeks from so much laughter. I wish I could find this clip on you-tube. He was an amazing comedian. Always remember how much joy he gave to everyone who was lucky enough to see him in action. God bless.
Tony D'Andrea
August 29, 2011
May God Bless You
May 28, 2011
My grandfather was asked to join Mr. Callas on stage at Caesar's Palace in the '70's. It was such a proud moment when Pop took the microphone and sang a lovely version of "Danny Boy".They were both named Charlie & are no doubt enjoying a couple hundred laughs.R.I.P. from one proud granddaughter!
David Ratcliffe
March 26, 2011
I met Charlie in 1959 when his son Mark became my best friend. I laughed with him and at him for six years,on top of getting to hear him play the drums everyday. RIP Mark call or write please.
Paul Monat
March 15, 2011
Just saw Mr. Callas in the movie "Shoes of theFishman" as the dying man.
He was my favorite comedian....Rest in Piece, Charlie!
Paul Monat
Rev. Dr. Nicholas V. Gamvas
March 14, 2011
The Greek that Made us Laugh!
May His Memory Be Eternal!
Michael Maushak
February 18, 2011
One of the most authentic and talented entertainers -- a comedic national treasure! We all loved him and
he will be deeply missed.
February 12, 2011
i want to thank mr. callas for sharing his gift of humor and ability to make people laugh. as a child i was allowed to watch mr. callas on t.v. i did not have many opportunities to laugh but when i watched him i did. thank you for brightening a sad child's life and giving me good happy memories. i regret that i could never tell you in person how much it meant to me.
Donna Preisler
February 10, 2011
I'm so very sorry for your loss. I never had the pleasure of meeting your Dad; however he and my Dad and were housemates these last few months. Lenny spoke highly of Charlie.
May God rest his soul, and may you find comfort and peace in your memories.
Raymond Hebrank
February 4, 2011
Charlie was zany as I can relate, he seemed to be a gentle, caring man God bless him, your Mom & your family...
Roman de la Luz
February 4, 2011
Class act.
San Antonio, Texas
February 3, 2011
TO THE CALLAS FAMILY,I EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY AT THIS VERY DIFFICULT AND PAINFUL TIME,PLEASE FIND COMFORT IN READING PSALMS 37;11.A,W.HOUSTON,TX.
Rae Sforza
February 3, 2011
Crazy funny guy. Always made us crack up with those noises and faces - great drummer too. Sympathies to his family. So sorry he left us. R.I.P., Charlie.
Bill Collins
February 3, 2011
Absolutely one of the funniest performers ever to be on TV. His antics were hysterical, and you had to watch every second of his schtick, or you would miss one of his crazy expressions. An original and genius comedian. Charlie, you'll be missed by many!
Malcolm Guidry
February 3, 2011
Charlie was one of my favorite comics ever since I was a child. He cracked me up. God bless and rest in peace with Evelyn, Charlie.
Karen
February 3, 2011
May you R.I.P. , Charlie.
Althea Ruffin
February 3, 2011
What a funny face, what a funny man - keep them laughing up in heaven Charlie. We'll miss you down here, but God knowes best Family he was loved by many
Sherrie Christensen
February 3, 2011
He has left a legacy of smiles and laughter. He will never be forgotten. Charlie Callas was a truly talented, funny and caring man. God bless the family.
Richard&Debbie Agnello
February 3, 2011
Dear Callas Family we have never met, however my wife and I wish to extend our deepest sympathy for your loss and to let you know Charlie Callas was the funniest comedien I ever saw on TV
Barbara Starling
February 3, 2011
I can see you Charlie making Jesus have a joyful noise.You were one that will never be replaced. Thanks for the laughs!
~~~Peace to his family.~~~
paul banks
February 2, 2011
seen him on johnny carson alot.
he was one of the best!!!
C C
February 2, 2011
Thanks for the laughs, Charlie! We won't forget.
Gwen Shaffer
February 2, 2011
I would like to express my condolences on the lose of Charlie. I remember him best for his participation in the "Dean Martin Roasts". He was funny and gave me laughs which sometimes included tears. May God be with you all in your loss.
Dave Crawford
February 2, 2011
i never will forget Capt. Weird, at least that is what i called him, from the Andy Williams comedy show. i still use the mimic him to my grandchildren. Mr. Callas will truly be missed
Jim Harris
February 2, 2011
Brought tears to my eyes in laughing at him looking for the glass eye of Sammy Davis on stage in Puerto Rico -- a memorable comedian -- maybe his heart will be mended now, joining his wife in the hereafter.
johnny alford
February 2, 2011
this man was just always the funniest.loved watching old comedy shows he was in.he will be deeply missed.
Kenneth Jenkins
February 2, 2011
What a funny guy! He will be missed.......
Brother Antony Durbetaki
February 2, 2011
I do remember him on the Johnny Carsons Tonight Show. It's been a long time sorry for your loss. Memory eternal. May the good lord bless and keep you in his care Brother Antony Durbetaki http://newlifeinchrist.vpweb.com/default.html
Donna De Lapo
February 1, 2011
I remember how funny Charlie was. I grew up in the 60's and always thought he was so clever. Those days were so much more simpler and better if we only appreciated it more while living it.
Susan
February 1, 2011
I'm sure Charlie is celebrating his new life with the love of his life. We will all remember his great comedic talent. I remember him from all the shows he did. Watched whenever he was on. RIP Charlie...you are in a much better place! Condolences to his family.
February 1, 2011
Mark & Larry, I loved your father. He was my favorite comedian. The best was when he was the hunter with the shakes & holding a rifle.
Thanks for sharing him with us. Be proud, be at peace & know we will all be together again.
God bless you. Susan K., Paris, IL
Mintra Mankasingh
February 1, 2011
Sorry to hear of his passing...My condolensces..May the good lord shower his blessings upon you that you may handle this tragedy with ease and comfort..I was a fan
Ronald Donett
February 1, 2011
I always thought that Charlie was a great comedian. My favorite of all his routines was when he was at the Dean Martin Roast and the victim was Don Rickles. Charlie got up and imitated George Jessell and he was just too funny. My sincere sympathy to Charlie's family.
Joe Finney
February 1, 2011
He was a great comedian and will be missed. I remember him being on Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon.
Charles Hester
February 1, 2011
What a gift he had at making people laugh.
Christy Stone
January 31, 2011
There will be an empty chair at the holiday table this year, but it will be filled with loving memories.
Earlene Montero
January 31, 2011
Such a sad day for all of his fans...
Frank Sinatra's birthday show at Desert Inn
Anette Levine
January 31, 2011
30+ years, I will miss you Charlie. Thank you for the many laughs and for letting me get to know lovely Eve and your terrific grandsons. Rest in peace. Anette
Tres
January 31, 2011
I am so sorry for the loss of your father. His contribution to society adds more to our lives than we may know ....Comedians see life the way I wish I could see it. I hope that you find comfort in the fact the God remembers all the good that he did. I hope that all goes well you. I hope that Psalms 23 can help you to know that there is someone you can always talk too. I wish you the best.
Tish Homan
January 31, 2011
Loved Him!Thinking of his sons.How they will miss him.
RICHARD HERNANDEZ
January 31, 2011
A VERY FUNNY DUDE!!
January 31, 2011
I loved to watchCharlie Callas. He was so funny. We need more comics like him. RIP - Annie Lewis/Dist. Hgt., MD
Marianne Mathis
January 31, 2011
How much you made me laugh when I was a kid...tears would stream down my cheeks...thank you for that. Rest In Peace and keep them laughing up there!!!!
Nancy Stryker
January 31, 2011
Thank you Charlie for all the laughs. Like my dad, you went to be with your wife not long after my mom passed away.
T. W
January 31, 2011
Will be missed hopefully the family can find comfort.
John 5:28 29
Pat Starr
January 31, 2011
I remember watching Charlie Callas on TV with my family when I was a kid. He was hilarious! God bless him and his family.
Evelyn Cross
January 31, 2011
I never got the chance to see Charlie in person, but he was always a wonderful entertainer. May God be with his family & friends during this sorrowful time. Know you are in my prayers. Rest in peace Charlie.
Anna Jones
January 31, 2011
Sending my sincerest heart felt condolences to the Callas family. I grew up watching Charlie on TV with my dad. He made me laugh hard and when I look back at his preformances and appearences on the Dean Martin Roasts I now laugh with tears. Keep'em laughing in heaven Charlie, you will be missed!
January 31, 2011
I think I hear the Lord laughing, must be Charlie doing a routine. A funny, funny guy who could make you laugh without being obscene. RIP
Michele Williamson
January 31, 2011
A truly funny man who will be truly missed...may your body rest in peace and your mind keep 'em laughing in heaven.
Mike Penix
January 31, 2011
RIP Charlie Callas and sincere condolences to the Callas family and friends. I will remember Charlie always, one of my favorite comedians.
Louie Velez
January 31, 2011
I met Charlie Callas years ago when he came in to see our rat Pack show in Las Vegas and performed for us and the audience. He was wonderful and I felt such a wonderful connection with this man. I will truly miss him and my thoughts and prayers goes to his family.God Bless you Charlie callas.
Cheryl Baker
January 31, 2011
He was one in a million ( he made me feel good )RIP and God Bless .
Jim Barrett
January 31, 2011
Charlie was one of a dying breed. Today's comedians could learn a lot from him. Thanks for the laughs Charlie! Rest in peace.
Rita Davis
January 31, 2011
Charlie Callas was the greatest in his field! What he had, was a natural GIFT, and how fortunate we all are to have had the pleasure of being entertained by him. His talent cannot be duplicated! We have truly lost a most valued personality. It sounds as though he must have died from a broken heart........So sad to hear of your mother's passing, as well.
January 31, 2011
Charlie Callas was one of our favorite comedians. May God rest his soul!!!...................Victor Gonzalez
Cheryl Trutt
January 30, 2011
Dear Mark, Larry and family,
Sincere sympathy for your loss. I knew both Dad & Mom and will miss them both. Charlie never failed to make me smile. He was a good friend to my husband Tom. Now they are all together again just like at the range.
Gail Cook
January 30, 2011
Mr. Callas surely brought alot of laughter to our family and we are sorry to hear of his passing. Our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.We truly enjoyed him .
Lou Piccolo
January 30, 2011
SORRY A FAST STORY ABOUT CHARLIE MET HIM IN ALANTIC CITY WHILE WHEELING MY NEICE SHE IS A 16 YEAR QUADRIPLEGIC CHARILE STOP AND DID A FULL SHOW FOR HER MADE HER DAY AND MINE HE HAD TEARS IN HIS EYES WHEN FINISHED NEVER FORGOT THIS WAS OVER 30 YEARS AGO SUPER MAN AGAIN SORRY BUT NOW HES IN HEAVEN
Janice Pagano
January 30, 2011
Growing up in Fort Lee, NJ I often saw Charlie out and about. What an extremely funny man. I was a cashier at the Foodtown in Ft. Lee, Mrs. Callas used to shop there alot accompanied by her sister Helen always by her side. Mrs. Callas was a lovely woman, wasn't aware of her passing. My deepest sympathy to the Callas family
January 30, 2011
Your Father has brought many hours of laughter and entertainment to my parents, myself and my siblings. He was truly one of our favorite comedians. Thank you for sharing him with us.
God bless you and the Callas family.
J. LaPrime (Metairie, LA)
January 30, 2011
To the Callas family, A truely wonderful entertainer and a lovely man. I met your mom and dad while he was a member if the U.S.I.M.L.T. We shot in Canada together and while practicing for that competition we had the pleasure of meeting your mom also. What a lovely lady. Trying so hard to compile a list of assets from your dads small scrap pieces of papers she had in a brown grocery bag. That was a great day at the Roxbury range. I am saddened to hear of her passing also. May the wonderful memories you have of both of them help lighten your hearts burden during this difficult time.
B and B Peloquin, Florida
Audrey
January 30, 2011
Charlie will be sorely missed. I only met him once, years ago while he worked the Top Hat Supper Club in Windsor, but have fondly remembered him since. He made a stressed out waitress relax and laugh.
Fannie
January 30, 2011
I remember the humor. May your memories and the strength from God sustain you at this sad time.
Dolly, Molly, Polly and Gus Flower
January 30, 2011
I remember seeing Chuck way back when he was just getting into the show biz game. He first started with a cowboy persona, like the late, great Will Rogers. He would stand on a bare stage and work a lariat, just like old Will. He told stories of cattle work in Brooklyn and Patterson, New Jersey, about the time they had a big hurracane over there. Not too funny, so he made a switch to the kind of work we all remember him for today.
Great funny man, sure to be missed.
RIP great funny guy.
The Flower Sisters
Margaret Beard
January 30, 2011
I remember him in the 70's as a young child on the comedy show, I am sorry for your loss but remember the funny personality that he had and his serious side as well. May you throw your burden on our Heavenly Father and He will sustain you in you time of need.
January 30, 2011
To the Callas Family and Friends,
Deeply sorry for the loss of such a creative and funny person like Charlie. In this very sad occasion please find a measure of comfort from the many wonderful memories he must have shared over the years.
Psalms 34:18-"God is near to those broken at heart..."
You can feel that Death can leave a heartache that nothing can heal, just know that Love can bring a memory that no one can steal.
The Grant Family
P.S.-He did a great time at all the Roasts he attended.
Hanisha
January 30, 2011
Charlie Callas Family:
I am sorry for your loss. May friends, family and our Heavenly Father Jehovah bring you great comfort at this time of grief.
January 30, 2011
I just loved Charlie. I so often wished I could have seen more of his shows. I never laughed so much. He was one of a kind.
Joyce Brooks, New york
Paula Bisceglia
January 30, 2011
As a youngster my entire family would watch Charlie on tv and laugh and laugh. He certainly brought alot of joy to alot of people for many, many years. I thank him for that. May he rest is peace united with his wife.
Douglas McKean
January 30, 2011
Charlie was to me, the highlight of the Dean Martin Roast shows. I have videos of the shows and when Charlie came on, I would watch him over and over again, and laugh every time. Thank You Charlie for all the fun times. I am still laughing today. God Bless.
John
January 30, 2011
To the Callas family and friends...... We would like to offer a message of comfort and hope to the family , we are truly sorry for the family's loss , have faith in the promise God made of better days to come when we won't have to experience such pain and suffering ever again . Psalms 37:10,11, 29 are very encouraging and comforting ,we offer our deepest condolence
Regina Miller
January 30, 2011
Loved watching this man, he always made me and my Mom and Dad laugh, when I was a kid. He will be missed. May God Bless you~~~~~
Michael Metts
January 30, 2011
I grew up watching him as he always made me and my family laugh till we had tears in our eyes. Now my tears are sorrow for your lost. Now he and his wife can make heaven laugh once again as they walk through the pearly gates holding hands.
January 30, 2011
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Carla Tripi
January 30, 2011
I met Mr. Callas in 1984 while working at Caesars Palace and he was the nicest and funniest man I ever met. He nade me smile and laugh for a week. It was the best week of my life for having the pleasure of meeting and talking to him. My thoughts and prayers to all The Callas family. The BEST of the BEST, truly a wonderful man.
God Bless
ALMA MAESE
January 30, 2011
GOD BLESS YOU
January 30, 2011
I'm a boomer so I remember very well Charlie Callas. He was an extremly funny man. Rip Charlie.
joe auffenberg
January 30, 2011
im very sorry for the death of your dad joe auffenberg stlouis , mo. 63122
jim
January 30, 2011
always made laugh.will miss him
January 29, 2011
I think he was hilaaariouss..Phft..Phft..
Lenny Johnston
January 29, 2011
I guess God needed a good commedian up in heaven...Charlie was a great one...its Johnny's loss that he didnt let him come back on after 1982...I will miss his antics...the arrow thing he did that was funny...I think I saw him back in the early 1970's and was thinking to myself...hmm I can do this also...make people laugh...yet I do but not on stage...youre gonna be great up there Charlie...God Bless you...
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