'Star Wars' Actor Gary Friedkin Dies At 70 From COVID, Family Urges Vaccinations

Actor Gary Friedkin, best known for his roles in "Star Wars" and "Happy Days" died on December 2, after he contracted COVID and complications arose. He was 70 and 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.

In the obituary shared, his family said, "while Gary may have been short of stature, he was a giant amongst 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 also thanked Dr. Goodwin and "the phenomenal staff of St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital MICU" who was caring for Gary in his last days.

Friedkin contracted COVID recently and was in the ICU for the last three weeks of his life, battling complications arising from the virulent disease. They further urged vaccinations, writing, "The family thanks you in advance for respecting their privacy at this time and encourages everyone to get vaccinated and boosted to protect their family and community."

Further, a scholarship has been established in Gary’s name at YSU, focusing on those with a disability or a concentration in the performing arts.

Friedkin is known for roles like Clarence on "Happy Days" in 1982, and as an Ewok in 1983's "Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi." He also appeared in movies like "Young Doctors in Love" and "Cool World", along with having appearances in shows like "Chicago Hope" and "The Practice".

His obituary mentions the 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.

It also read, "To see one of Gary’s most memorable bits, go to YouTube and type in “Young Doctors in Love telephone. Gary was born to entertain. While in high school, he was a member of multiple school and local bands, including the rock band, The Solars. Playing piano and percussion by ear, his talent was exceptional."

The obituary further read, "He was a gift to all who knew him as an amazing son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle, and friend. Gary lived his life to the absolute fullest, bringing endless laughs to his family and many friends, while never letting the obstacles he faced get in his way. Gary put countless smiles on people's faces and left so many with their own special 'Gary story.' "

"Gary will be dearly missed by his brother, Alan; sister-in-law, Carol; nephews, Nathan and Aaron (Joni) Friedkin; niece, Sara (Lance) Polikov; great-nieces, Hayden and Jordyn Polikov; and great-nephew, Sawyer Polikov; along with many dedicated and loyal friends."

Known as “Kishka” to his childhood friends, Gary Friedkin was born Nov. 23, 1952, in Youngstown, and a celebration of Gary’s amazing life will be held in spring 2023.

Rest in Peace, Gary J. Friedkin.