Jack Albertson, acclaimed Emmy Award-winning actor, passed away on November 25, 1981, at the age of 74. Jack had a prolific career in show business, with roles spanning Broadway, television, and film. He won the 1969 Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his portrayal of Ed Brown in The Subject Was Roses, and was twice nominated for an Academy Award, for The Poseidon Adventure (1972) and The Sunshine Boys (1975). His other notable roles included Jenny, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971), and Grandpa Joe in the classic TV series Chico and the Man (1974-78). Born on June 16, 1907, in Malden, Massachusetts, Jack served in the US Navy during World War II and married dancer Florence Bates in 1945. They remained married until her passing in 1978. He was a natural-born entertainer and credited his mentor, the late Jimmy Durante, as a major influence, saying, "Durante was an inspiration to me, a kind of father figure. I wanted to be just like him.” Jack Albertson is survived by his daughter, Cerberus Albertson-Somers; two sons, Jack Jr. and Peter; three grandchildren; and numerous friends and fans around the world. He will be greatly missed.