The actor who rose to fame for his role as Uncle Leo on “Seinfeld”, Len Lesser died on Wednesday, February 16 due to cancer-related pneumonia. Citing the statement issued by Lesser’s family, the Associated Press said that the 88-year old veteran character actor died in Burbank California.

“Heaven got a great comedian and actor today,” the AP quoted Lesser’s daughter, Michele as saying in a statement.

The family also expressed gratitude for the support and sympathy received from friends and family. They also thanked those who had been a part of Lesser’s life and have provided him love.

“The outpouring of sympathy we’ve already received has been amazing and is so greatly appreciated.” Michele added, according to AP. “Thank you to all the people who helped make my father’s last journey special and surrounded with love”.

The actor who appeared in a number of television shows is survived by his daughter, Michele; son, David and daughter-in-law, Julie as well as his grandchildren, Jonathan, Kayla, and Mayah.

Lesser latest television appearance was on a TV drama, “Castle”. Other shows he was part of included “Get Smart”, “That Girl”, “The Munsters”, “The Monkees”, “The Rockford Files”, “Thirtysomething”, “ER”, “Everybody Loves Raymond”. The show “Everybody Loves Raymond”, said AP featured Lesser as the arm-shaking Garvin.

Lesser also appeared on a number of films, including “Outlaw Josey Wales”, “Kelly’s Heroes”, “Birdman of Alcatraz”, and “Death Hunt”. The actor had also worked on stage since he began acting since 1955. His projects in the entertainment industry show collaboration with big stars like Clint Eastwood, Barbra Streisand, Lee Marvin, Dustin Hoffman and Steve McQueen.