Actor Gary Friedkin, known for his roles in “Star Wars” and “Happy Days” died on December 2, after he contracted COVID and complications arose. He is 70 years old and has spent the last three weeks in intensive care.
According to an obituary published in “The Tribune Chronicle”, Gary Friedkin died peacefully with his brother Alan and sister-in-law Carol by his side.
Families Urge COVID Vaccination
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In a shared obituary, his family said, “though Gary may have been short, he was a giant among his family and friends. His legacy will live on as stories are told and retold for years to come by all who loved him.”
They are also grateful to Dr. Goodwin and the “phenomenal staff of St. Elizabeth Hospital Youngstown MICU” who cared for Gary in his final days.
Friedkin recently contracted COVID and was in the ICU for the last three weeks of his life, fighting complications arising from the deadly disease. They further urged vaccination, writing, “The family thanks you in advance for respecting their privacy at this time and encourages everyone to get vaccinated and be motivated to protect their families and communities.”
Subsequently, a scholarship was established in Gary’s name at YSU, focusing on those with disabilities or concentration in the performing arts.
Gary Friedkin Becomes an Ewok in “Star Wars”
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Friedkin is best known for his roles as Clarence on “Happy Days” in 1982, and as an Ewok in “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi” in 1983. He also appeared in films such as “A Young Doctor in Love” and “The World Cool”, along with appearances on shows like “Chicago Hope” and “The Practice”.
His obituary mentions a long list of actors he worked with including Ed O’Neil, Chevy Chase, Michael McKean, Dabney Coleman, Gary Marshall, Henry Winkler, Carrie Fisher, Hector Elizondo, Whoopie Goldberg, Julia Roberts, Jennifer Aniston and John DiResta, and many more again.
It also reads, “To see one of Gary’s most memorable stories, go to YouTube and type in “Young Doctors in Love phone. Gary was born to entertain. While in high school, he was a member of several school and local bands, including the rock band, The Solars. Playing piano and percussion by ear, his talent is incredible.”
Gary Friedkin Remembered By His Family As A ‘Gift’
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The obituary further read, “He was a gift to all who knew him as a wonderful son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle, and friend. Gary lived his life to the fullest, bringing endless laughter to his family and many friends, while never letting the obstacles he faced stop him. Gary put countless smiles on people’s faces and left so many with their own ‘Gary story’.”
“Gary will be greatly missed by his brother, Alan; sister-in-law, Carol; nephews, Nathan and Aaron (Joni) Friedkin; niece, Sara (Lance) Polikov; nieces, Hayden and Jordyn Polikov; and nephew, Sawyer Polikov; with many dedicated and loyal friends.”
Known as “Kishka” to his childhood friends, Gary Friedkin was born on November 23, 1952, in Youngstown, and a celebration of Gary’s amazing life will be held in the spring of 2023.
Rest in Peace, Gary J. Friedkin.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
