Lesser, 'Seinfeld's' Uncle Leo, dead at 88

BURBANK, Calif., Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Actor Len Lesser died Wednesday in Burbank, Calif., of pneumonia related to cancer, his family announced. He was 88.

The New York native studied at the American Theatre Wing and with Uta Hagen, Lee Strasberg and Milton Katselas, and held a bachelor of arts degree from College of City of New York.

Best known for his portrayal of Uncle Leo on "Seinfeld" and Garvin on "Everybody Loves Raymond," Lesser had more than 500 film and television. Among the movies he appeared in were "Outlaw Josey Wales," "Kelly's Heroes," "Birdman of Alcatraz" and "Death Hunt."

"Heaven got a great comedian and actor today," Michele Lesser, his daughter, said in a statement. "The outpouring of sympathy we've already received has been amazing and is so greatly appreciated. Thank you to all the people who helped make my father's last journey special, and surrounded with love. The doctors, nurses, and staff have been outstanding, and Dad was in phenomenal hands. His passing was peaceful, with great dignity, and surrounded by those who loved him dearly."

Len Lesser is also survived by a son, David Lesser; David's wife, Julie; and their children -- Jonathan, Kayla and Mayah.

The funeral will be private. A public memorial service at A Noise Within theater company in Los Angeles on a date to be announced, the family's representatives said.