Judge Joseph Wapner of 'People's Court' fame dead at 97

Feb. 26 (UPI) -- Retired judge and beloved, television personality Joseph A. Wapner has died at his home in Los Angeles. He was 97.

Gabriel Wapner, the judge's grandson, confirmed the death to The Washington Post Sunday.

The elder Wapner presided over the syndicated series The People's Court 1981-93.

TMZ reported the judge was hospitalized last week with breathing problems. His condition worsened and he returned home Friday under hospice care, dying Sunday morning.

He is survived by Mickey, his wife of 70 years.  They are the parents of three children.