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BORN
1942
DIED
2018
David Ogden Stiers Obituary
His agent, Mitchell Stubbs, told The Oregonian that Stiers died peacefully in his home.
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Stiers played the snobby, blue blood surgeon Major Winchester for six seasons in the acclaimed TV dramedy. His character replaced series antagonist Frank Burns, played by Larry Linville, who left the show after the end of the fifth season.
Winchester developed into a different kind of foil for Hawkeye and the pranksters of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. He was pompous, but a skilled surgeon who remained in touch with his humanity. Stiers was twice nominated for an Emmy for his performance.
He made guest appearances on dozens to TV shows over the years, including "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "Murder, She Wrote," "Matlock," and the Perry Mason made-for-TV movies.
Stiers was also a prolific voice actor. For over a decade he was a frequent voice in Disney animated features. His credits include "Lilo & Stitch," "Pocahontas," and perhaps most notable of all, Cogsworth the clock in "Beauty and the Beast."
We invite you to share condolences for David Ogden Stiers in our Guest Book.
Memories and Condolences
for David Ogden Stiers
238 Entries
Rebecca Cude (Becky)
January 19, 2025
My prayers for PEACE go out to all.whom shared LOVE for David. I have so many memories of David, Maggie, and Ken- I even met Donna and a few aunts and cousins. The times we spent at his house at Seal Rock are priceless. I will ALWAYS LOVE and Miss David, Him trying to spot whales and never succeeding (joke between us), his love of music ...just David- no one can give a Bear Hug of LOVE like David could.
Chip Fitts
December 31, 2024
Very talented, excellent actor I saw him in the first "Oh God" film but mostly associate him with his role in "MASH" as blueblood Maj. Charles Emerson Winchester. He is missed but Maj. Winchester will live on in our memories and "MASH" reruns. Rest Easy DOS.
Maria Colby
December 29, 2024
San Diego live theater "Associate Artist" "Measure for Measure", "King Lear" wonderful., I met him afterwards.
Maria Colby
December 13, 2024
1951 King Lear/ Old Globe Theatre San Diego/ A wonderful man/actor
Maria Colby
December 13, 2024
Old Globe Theater San Diego CA. "1981 King Lear" A wonderful man.
Mike & Tracy Vallier
October 16, 2024
Being an Oregon guy, David was one of my favorite actors as I grew up a huge MASH fan! He was terrific in everything he did and is sorely missed! RIP DOS!
chip fitts
August 26, 2024
You were so great and convincing as Charles Emerson Winchester in MASH a much better surgeon than Frank Burns very convincing and believable.R.I.P.
Maj. Winchester
David Ogden Stiers, the actor best known to audiences as Major Charles Emerson Winchester III in "M*A*S*H*
Grady Youngblood
January 10, 2024
David Ogden Stiers, the actor best known to audiences as Major Charles Emerson Winchester III in "M*A*S*H*
Grady Youngblood
January 10, 2024
David Ogden Stiers, the actor best known to audiences as Major Charles Emerson Winchester III in "M*A*S*H*,"
Jacob Franz
January 1, 2023
In 1982 or 83 Mr. Stiers was appearing in King Lear, I believe, at the Old Globe theater here in San Diego. I wrote him a fan letter which he replied to with a very kind letter, which was later lost. I wrote him a thank you. A day or so letter on a very hot day there was a knock on the door, my wife answered it and there was Mr. Stiers who had a very nice visit with us. Just a very kind man. Many may know him from his role of Major Winchester, and may believe he was the same in real life. He was not, he was the warmest, kindest and most charming individual you could meet. A very talent man, and a wonderful human being. He is truly missed.
Sue Zellers
February 4, 2022
I frequently watch Mash reruns and enjoy David's portrayal of Major Winchester. I am wondering if David's was as refined in real life as his character. One of my favorite voice roles includes the prologue to Beauty and the Beast. I always wished it were longer. He is greatly missed.
Gary Jaramillo
August 9, 2021
Dearest family of David. I know this will sound strange coming from a fan and complete stranger of David, but I have yet to get over the passing of David. I'm 70 years old and I can tell you from my vast experience and knowledge of movies, The Motion Picture Industry and Television and acting - that David Ogden stiers was indeed the best actor and complete professional whoever graced film or television with his presence. He was the consummate thespian and any and every part or role that he ever played was just as convincing as it can get in theatrical or film or television projects. I found him to be lovable, strong, and an actor who left a very deep and lasting impression on people around the world no matter what role he happened to be playing at the time. I miss him terribly and I never knew him personally. His voice, his smile, his face, and the way he carried himself left an impression on me and millions of others that we will not forget in our entire lifetimes. He was the proverbial diamond in the rough for the world, and my prayers are that more smart dedicated and educated film and television people understand just what a gift he was to the world. I truly believe I will see him again in another place and time, and it will be my distinct an eternal pleasure to shake his hand and thank him for the way he made me feel about the character he played in each and every role he ever performed in. God bless you David Ogden Stiers. If I were the one to write the history books on your life and time, it would be glorious and I would make the world understand what a wonderful actor and human being David Ogden Stiers truly was while on this dreadful journey we call life. His acting made it all somewhat palatable. God bless you David, Walk the clouds of heaven and spread your talents throughout time and memoriam. Your friend, Gary R. Jaramillo in a small southwest corner of the world called Socorro, New Mexico. Adieu my friend. Adieu.
Piet Nel
January 7, 2021
Yes, I'm here because of M*A*S*H. Believe it or not, I never saw a single episode of this legendary series until 2020. Because I'd heard so much about it, I started watching in August of 2020, and finished on December 26. David elevated the show. He managed to play a character that was pompous and haughty—and yet, when the occasion arose, he could show his human side and be one of the boys. He even participated in the pranking and general hijinks on some occasions. It was a wonderful balancing act. He made the supercilious major Winchester lovable. David, thank you for your many wonderful performances. You have enriched our lives and won a permanent place in our hearts. May we meet again one day.
REBECCA CUDE
August 1, 2020
I had the privilege's of meeting David, Maggie (his mother), and Ken (his father) while living simultaneously, with David, in Seal Rock. I was blessed to share Thanksgiving and other times in his home, sharing classical music and watching for whales. I will NEVER forget David's bear hugs (the BEST ever) and the pure love he and his family bestowed on me and mine. David's talent was irresistible and could always move me to tears or laughter-as he would switch from role to role. There will always be a hole in my heart that David could only fill. I love and miss you, David...and I always will.
March 11, 2020
I would like to offer my condolences to the family and friends of mr .David Ogden a great entertainer may the God of tender mercies grant him peace
Jeanne Peters
October 11, 2019
David Ogden Stiers, I will never forget your amazing talent in acting and in music. God bless you.
Terrie Bailey
July 13, 2019
While watching a re run today of M*A*S*H*, with my husband we googled this extremely talented man.
Reading the different comments by his admirer's made us cry.
Yet the joy of watching his acting gave us a huge smile.
He was a huge supporter of our local theater here in Newport OR.
Continuously giving his insights as well as problem solving skills to any situation that he observed.
Time hasn't healed the pain of losing him yet knowing so many loved him and admired his ability to entertain when he was just being himself gives us a small chuckle.
His character remains as strongly as if he were still here with us.
Though he has left his generous nature and good character lives on.
Terrie Robert and Joy household
Janet Comby
April 23, 2019
I wanted to add my own post since David came to mind today April 20, 2019. I've been thinking about the people who have made a positive impact throughout my life . I became a fan when as a teen spotted the most amazing pair of blue eyes I d ever seen watching that army show way back when . I would search TV Guide for his name , (no internet), hoping to find an appearance in a tv show/ movie. Watched all of them. I'm still a fan 40+ years later. My favorite actor, he touched my heart, made me laugh a lot, sometimes cry, often to think about things from a different point of view , and always entertained. When I was struggling with depression and looking for ways to cope , his influence led me first to classical music , then on to art of all kinds and that has made all the difference. I regret that I had not written to him and said Thanks for all the great stuff you've sent my way . You're all that and a bag of chips! So today I just wanted to put my thanks out there , and send some love too. I can only hope , to to follow his example and , in some small way, to help make the a better place. Love you David, will always remember you .
george turner
December 26, 2018
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Michelle
November 6, 2018
Mr. David Ogden Stiers, I just want to say thank you for giving me a lifetime of wonderful childhood memories. Over the years I have enjoyed watching you in many Disney movies but there are a couple I hold especially dear to my heart. Your spirit will live on forever in your vast body of work and every time I hear your voice I'll think of you and know that you're resting eternally in heaven. You're irreplaceable and the world has lost someone truly special in more ways than one. Rest in peace.
Greta
July 4, 2018
I loved you for a long time from afar, David. RIP.
Casey Mazur
June 22, 2018
A true thespian...gentle soul....as charles would say....thankyooo
terry slattery
June 19, 2018
a unique role in mash. wow he was so good at what he did. awesome clash between him and bj and hawkeye.
June 13, 2018
A massive loss of such a great talented man who worked tirelessly to entertain both on and off screen. Is greatly missed as far here as Australia. Thank you so sincerely Mr. Stiers. RIP.
Barbara Jaap
June 10, 2018
I am so very sorry. Mr. Stiers, your wonderful acting helped me get over many despondent days- my husband was in the military and often absent. My girls now love the re-runs. May God bless the family. Sincerely, Barbara
Donna Butler
June 5, 2018
RIP David, I love watching him not only in Mash and Murder She Wrote but also in Perry Mason as Mr. Restin. Such great talent, he will be surely missed
Robert Goldsmith
May 2, 2018
Mr Stiers' portrayal of Charles in the television program MASH was a role model for me growing up - he portrayed such refinement and evolution that as a child I emulated his character. I had written him a letter explaining how he inspired me to rise above humble beginnings, to be more than I would have been otherwise. I had no idea he was battling cancer. I had sent the letter him a few months prior to his death, I hope he received the letter and knew how much of a positive impact he was for me as young child growing up in small town central Illinois. His passing is a tremendous loss and the world is that much more drab for his passing. May you rest in peace gentle soul, you've done much to bring light and mirth to the world.
David Lynn Weik
April 28, 2018
It is with great sadness, and sorrow, to hear of a wonderful friend's death. We first met in Colorado Springs, Colorado (@ the Braodmoore Hotel where the Case of the Sinister Spirit was being filmed). Our friendship grew from there. I was young, and there at the Braodmoore World Arena training for an upcoming ice skating competition (Southwesterns). He gave me funds to buy new figure skating boots, which I did. The letter he wrote me inspired me further to go on to win a silver medal with my partner R. Healy at Southwesterns a few months later. It wasn't something unusual David O. Steirs did, showing people his kindness...he had a wonderful heart. The handwritten letter to me then shared his deep thoughts...i was, indeed, appreciative of his kind words, and cannot not express in words myself, my gratitude for a wonderful person that he was. I shall miss him always...my prayers are with him.
Mark Baker
April 13, 2018
A true professional
Welcome sight in our home.
Always remembered.
April 10, 2018
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
JENNIFER BARIBAULT
April 5, 2018
THERE ARE NO OTHER WORDS THAT ANYONE COULD SAY IS YET WE HAVE LOST A TALENTED ACTOR DAVID OGDEN STIERS, I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR THE PASSING HIM. ALSO, HE WAS EXCELLENT ACTOR ALONG A FINE PERFORMANCE THAT HE DID, THANKS FOR THE LAUGHTER, THE MEMORIES THAT YOU GIVENS US. DAVID DID SOME GUEST APPEARANCES ON SOME TV SHOWS LIK,E "CHARLIE'S ANGELS" 1976 AS SCOTT WOODVILLE, "THE MARY TYLER MOORE SHOW" FROM 19976-1977 3 EPISODES AS MEL, "PHYLLIS" 1976 MR RAYMOND,"RHODA" FROM 1976-1977 2 EPISODES DR. CURTIE DRESIRSERL/GEORGE, "MASH" FROM 1977-1983 AS MAJOR CHARLES EMMERSON WINCHESTER HE SHARE A TENT WITH ALAN ALDA PLAYED HAWEYE PIECRE MIKE FARELL PLAYED BJ HUNNICUTT THEY BOTH YELL AT WINCHESTER WITH HIS CLASSICAL MUISC THAT HE PLAYED AMONG SOME OTHER STUFF, I DO REMEMBER THAT HE TEACH SOME CHINSE PEOPLE HOUSE TO PLAY SOME CLASSICAL MUSIC. WE WILL ALL MISSED HIM AND NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. WE ALL KNOW THAT HE IS IN A VERY GOOD PLACE..
April 3, 2018
He was GREAT, added spice to MAsh
March 30, 2018
I would like to express my deepest sympathies for the loss of your loved one who will be remembered for his talent. I hope you find comfort and help in God during this time of sorrow.
Joseph
March 29, 2018
Thank you for your charity work
Making us laugh and your decency
Michael Boyd
March 26, 2018
I'm glad you had a chance to star on such a classic tv show as MASH and demonstrate your talent as Major Winchester in front of so many viewers
Gabriela Wei -Vickers
March 25, 2018
A true Gentleman❤
March 23, 2018
David will always be remembered by his admirers. The world has lost a special person who entertained millions. RIP JA
Ronald Gimigliano
March 22, 2018
I always mentioned to David that his style was totally unique. He was professionally perfect. Prolific actor and his great love of music gushed from him so freely that I often thought he was Toscanini reborn. Ronald Gimigliano
March 20, 2018
Mr. Stiers always shared his talents with a worldwide audience. His acting was a joy to watch in every role he performed. David's family should be very proud of his accomplishments. Marsha H.
March 18, 2018
Every condolence message sent by David's fans show how much he was loved and admired. He was an exceptional talent who always gave a flawless performance. He will long be remembered. Barb M.
March 17, 2018
The loss of David is being felt worldwide. His family is in the thoughts and prayers of his many admirers. RIP A Fan
Philip Tartaglia
March 17, 2018
God bless David and family you will be miss. A great actor in film industry. Nobody can replace you.
March 16, 2018
Loving messages continue for David's family on their loss. He was a very special talent who will always be a beloved gentle man. David was an actor who could play a variety of characters with outstanding realism. AJM
March 15, 2018
Many shows go downhill when they have to replace charactors/actors. David Ogden Stiers actually IMPROVED M*A*S*H. His Winchester may have been a foil for Hawkeye and BJ, but he also was loved and respected...just like Mr. Stiers by us all.
March 15, 2018
David was a brillant actor with many talents. His appearances on a variety of TV shows showed he was a distinguish performer. His work is completed and may David now rest in peace. An Admirer
March 14, 2018
This beloved gentleman will be forever missed. In every role he performed, his acting was outstanding. It is time for David to rest. A fan
March 12, 2018
David will be missed by his family and his millions of fans. His exceptional talents were many and he will forever be remembered. Dawn M.
March 12, 2018
I watch MASH all the time, his portrayal of Charles Emerson Winchester of the Boston Winchesters, was very well done. A fine actor; he will be missed.
March 11, 2018
David's admirers continue to leave loving messages for his family. He was a much beloved man who has entertained millions. David is now resting in heavenly peace. Barbara M.
Linda blankenship
March 10, 2018
David.me,and my husband Robin loved seeing you on M*A*S*H.We will miss you forever.We love you.Prayer's goes out to your family.Rest in peace.
March 10, 2018
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived, and look toward a future with you loved one again.
March 10, 2018
TV channel WGN AMERICA has dedicated a portion of their schedule as a tribute to David. They will be showing episodes of MASH dedicated to David's outstanding performances. RIP David Pat D.
Larry W
March 10, 2018
I wish to offer my sincere condolences on your loss of David. What a wonderful actor!
May your memories along with knowing God will sustain you during these difficult times bring you comfort. 1 Peter 5:6,7
March 9, 2018
Today as a tribute to David, a Chicago TV station is showing MASH episodes which highlight his great talents. This honor proves this man was a beloved entertainer. JA
joseph wisniewski
March 9, 2018
May you rest in peace.
Mary Button
March 9, 2018
So sorry about Mr. Stiers. I enjoyed his character on Mash
March 9, 2018
David's role in Mash is being acknowledged as his best, but his career was filled with innumerable excellent performances. His many outstanding talents went beyond that one role. He should have won awards to reflect his versatility in acting. We all have lost a gentle man. Mary T.
March 9, 2018
Great line: Hawkeye opens the screen door to the Swamp and sez," After you." To which Charles Emerson Winchester III replies simply in perfect timing: "As it should be." Such was the understated wit of the entire show.
RIP Dr. Winchester...George Gurtner
David Buchanan
March 9, 2018
I loved the character he played and he did it so well. He will be missed by millions and I pray he rests in peace. Though I did not know you personally you my friend brought Major Charles Emerson Winchester III to life. Rest in Peace my friend.
March 9, 2018
I saw many of the shows he was in. We still enjoy many episodes of those. Sorry for your loss. Remember your wonderful memories.
March 9, 2018
Watched him many times on Mash liked his performances so sorry to hear of his passing this is for his family too have peace and love and remember him with fondness.
March 9, 2018
Another talented actor has gone to heaven. You will always be Charles Emerson Winchester from MASH that brought many laughs to an already funny cast. You will be sadly missed.
C K
March 8, 2018
Thanks for the laughs.
Kiara Sheryl Williams
March 8, 2018
M.A.S.H. Was My Favorite All--Time Day Time & Night Time T.V. Show Every Day ..... So , Dave Thanks For Teaching Me Everything I Know In Medical School When , I Was 18 Years Old ..... Judges 7:11 7:20 Joshua 6:04 Joel 2:20 John 9:19 9:20 Matthew 12:20 Mark 9:09 Corinthians 1:13:03 & James 2:15 ????????????
diane ramos
March 8, 2018
may god bless the family and comfort them. may you find peace in his promise.
Tom Clarke
March 8, 2018
Such a loss of a great character actor, and a true gentleman.
John Higley
March 8, 2018
One of my all time favorite characters on MASH was Winchester and it was because of DOS. Great actor. RIP, Major.
March 8, 2018
David's family has lost their beloved member and the world too has lost a beloved gentleman. David's myraid of roles will always be on film for future generations to enjoy. He may have left the stage, but he will always be in the minds of his many, many admirers. A Fan
Cindy Flores
March 8, 2018
So sorry to lose such an eloquent narrator and actor. His role in M*A*S*H* was well played and always had me laughing. RIP, Mr. Stiers.
Cindy Shoaf
March 8, 2018
so sorry to hear of his passing, he was a great actor and touched a lot of people ,may he always live on in our hearts, GOd Bless, we have lost so many good people, we are not promised tomorrow, so while we are here, love each other and Praise God
March 8, 2018
The best historical narrator of our time. A great great loss.
Debby Barton
March 8, 2018
I remember his performance on Star Trek as well as on MASH. He was great.
Terry Gray
March 7, 2018
So Sorry To Hear Of His Passing! Such A Joy To Watch On Mash! Very Believable Actor Portrayal! Prayers To His Family And Friends! A Loyal Fan!
March 7, 2018
To David's family: many, many admirers of his are very sad too on the loss of this beloved gentleman. May you have love and support of friends at this very sorrowful time. Bill M.
Donna James
March 7, 2018
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
You were fabulous in your job as Major Winchester in "M*A*S*H" and Beauty and the Beast as "Cogsworth!"
Rest In Peace, David!
March 7, 2018
R.I.P. David aka Charles
RD Fuerst
March 7, 2018
My sadness is deep. Mister Stiers will be missed great man great actor. Oregon's loss.
March 7, 2018
RIP I pray for your family as I know the pain of loosing a love one.
March 7, 2018
Mozart...
N. Harada
March 7, 2018
The best show in television history! RIP my friend.
tom f
March 7, 2018
my favorite on MASH
Richard Herrick
March 7, 2018
R.I.P
David N
March 7, 2018
Rest in peace Mr. Stiers and thank you so very much for the fond memories you have given us over the years.
Donald Hessenflow
March 7, 2018
When God wanted the best........He call on David Ogden Stiers aka Major Charles Emerson Winchester III. Rest in Peace and we will take over where you left off. You have fulfilled your dream and God has said your job is done. You will be missed.
Diane
March 6, 2018
I was so sad to hear of your passing. You will be missed. Thanks for all the memories.
William McCain
March 6, 2018
RIP Charles Emerson Winchester III
Christopher Pilger
March 6, 2018
Mr. Stiers was a gifted actor. We were granted joy from your performances in many art forms.
We will remember you forever with a smile and a prayer. THANK YOU !!!!!
March 6, 2018
Enjoyed all of your performances. Thank you for sharing your talent with us. May you rest in peace.
Kathryn
March 6, 2018
We are so sorry for the loss of David. Our family throughly enjoyed his role in Mash! May the family's cherished memories and our loving Heavenly Father bring comfort and peace at this time.
Stephen Bauer
March 6, 2018
David's performance in the M*A*S*H "Dreams" episode saved my life. I promised myself that I would leave any job that made me feel like that character felt...onstage, constantly performing, and not satisfying anyone...and 25 years into a law career, I hit that point and bailed out in time to save my life and soul. Yeah, it was only a TV show...but it was the key to my survival and ability to flourish.
Mrs. E. Soren
March 6, 2018
You were a beloved actor. One memorable episode of MASH, you wanted to know about dying and Heaven, now you know.
Rest in peace, a job well done.
Ed Susich
March 6, 2018
Condolences for a great actor and for "Major Charles Emerson Winchester 111", in M.A.S.H.I never miss a rerun of M.A.S.H, and enjoyed David's humor and character immensely.
March 6, 2018
My Heart Felt Condolences Go Out to Mr. Stiers Family, Friends and Co-Workers. He was an extremely talented man. Whom I have read had a heart that matched his talent. May he find peace and his beloved music in the afterlife along with those who have passed before him whom he cherished. Goodbye Farewell & Amen. David Ogden Stiers know that you will be missed.
March 6, 2018
David had a magnificant voice along with all his other outstanding talents. He was a true gentleman who will forever be remembered. May his family and friends know how much he was loved through all of these caring messages. RIP David A Fan
Millie Portante
March 6, 2018
He was a wonderful actor who will be missed. Sincere condolences to your family.
Kathy
March 6, 2018
Heartfelt condolences and prayer for this very sad and profound loss to the family of David Ogden Stiers. He brought much laughter and humor into our living room and he still does as we watch the M.A.S.H. reruns. I pray that you find comfort in prayer to Almighty God and that He bless your family and friends with his peace to comfort your hearts and minds.
Romans 15: 33 and Psalms 55: 1 ❤❤❤
March 6, 2018
played such a great character in MASH. Thank God for reruns.
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