The Supreme Master Ching Hai
By News Team
Richard Vincent “Dick” Van Patten, beloved American actor and animal welfare advocate, left this earthly plane June 23, 2015.
Born in 1928, Mr. Van Patten began his exceptional acting career in 1935 at the age of six and has been in 27 Broadway plays as well as numerous feature films and television shows. He is best known for his role as the caring father Tom Bradford on the very popular television series Eight is Enough. Among his feature films are Freaky Friday with Jodie Foster and the Oscar-winning movie, Charly. He was also a special guest star in The Real Love, a Broadway-style musical which was inspired by the true story of the life of renowned humanitarian, artist and spiritual teacher, Supreme Master Ching Hai. In addition, Mr. Van Patten has written several bestselling books. In his most recent, Eighty Is Not Enough, which he co-wrote, he shares stories and insights from his remarkable career. Mr. Van Patten is honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Betty Buckley, Dick Van Patten’s co-star in Eight is Enough, as well as in The Real Love, recalled, “He was the consummate professional, a wonderful actor, master of comedy, and a kind and generous human being. Every day on the set he was a happy, jovial person, always generous and ready to play, tease, and always keep us all laughing.” His warm presence in this world will be missed by all who knew him. Our deepest condolences to his loving family and friends. May his gracious soul rest in the love and light of the Divine.
PHOTO CREDIT: Dick Van Patten By Phil Konstantin-Wikimedia Commons–CC BY-SA 3.0
