James Gilmore "Jim" Backus

Jim Backus is probably best known as playing multi millionaire Thurston Howell lll 
on the CBS television sitcom “GILLIGAN’S ISLAND” (1964-1967). He was also the 
voice of nearsighted cartoon character Mr. Magoo.

Vigoda began his career with a small roles on the television series, Studio One.
His debut film was 1953’s The Joe Louis Story.

He went on to appear in dramas, including The Godfather (1972), and comedies
such as Barney Miller (ABC-TV, 1975-1982), and Joe Versus The Volcano (1990).

Hal Linden (left) and Abe Vigoda publicity photo for Barney Miller

Harold Allen Ramis (November 21, 1944 – February 24, 2014)

(FoxNews) – Comedy legend Harold Ramis, best known for his role
in the hit “Ghostbusters” films, has died. He was 69.

Ramis suffered from autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis, a disease
that causes swelling in the blood vessels, and died from complications
of the illness surrounded by his family.

"His creativity, compassion, intelligence, humor and spirit will be missed
by all who knew and loved him," his agent said in a written statement.

Ramis’ Hollywood breakthrough came in 1978 when he co-wrote the
blockbuster comedy "National Lampoon’s Animal House." He went on to
co-write "Stripes" (1981), "Ghostbusters" (1984) and "Ghostbusters II"
(1989), films in which he also co-starred. 

Ramis co-wrote and made his directorial debut with "Caddyshack" (1980),
followed by "National Lampoon’s Vacation" (1983). He most recently
directed episodes of “The Office.” 

Among his professional honors and awards, Ramis was the recipient of
the American Comedy Award, the British Comedy Award, and the BAFTA
(British Academy) award for screenwriting.

Ramis is survived by his wife, Erica Mann Ramis, and children Violet Stiel,
Julian and Daniel Ramis. He also has two grandchildren.

                                 
                                           Sandy Kozel

U.S. Marines cheer after raising the American flag atop Mount Suribachi at
Iwo Jima

Iwo Jima Statue, U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial in Washington D.C.

Isaac Sidney "Sid" Caesar

(September 8, 1922 – February 12, 2014)