Best remembered as the self-important father of gum-crunching Violet Beauregarde in the film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971).
He is survived by his granddaughter, Lindsey Fryman-Borchard; his wife, Carole; three daughters, Robin Stone, Debbie Stone, and Jan Fryman; a son, Michael Merkow-Stone; and seven more grandchildren.
He served in the United States Navy during World War II. After World War II, he studied drama at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, England. Then he moved to Australia where he joined the traveling theatre production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein's musical, "South Pacific.".
Last acting role was in the TV-movie Dorothy (2007) starring Diane Keaton.
On 22 September 2000, he appeared as an ordinary, non-celebrity contestant on "Wheel of Fortune" (1983). He placed second, winning $4,250 and a trip to Bermuda valued at $5,310.
Served in the Navy during World War II.
Studied acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
Was nominated for Broadway's 1959 Tony Award as Best Supporting or Featured Actor (Musical) for "Redhead."