“Leave It to Beaver” alum John Eimen passed away at his home in Mukilteo, Washington, at age 76, his family confirmed, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Eimen recently announced he had been diagnosed with “advanced” prostate cancer.
“I’ve been blessed with wonderful friends, a loving family and 75 great years, Thanks to all of you,” he shared via Facebook on September 23.
John Eimen Had a Storied Career
Eimen was perhaps best known as Cadet Monk Roberts on the children’s sitcom “McKeever And The Colonel.” However, he began his career with TV appearances as a young child in shows such as “The Rebel,” “Wagon Train,” “Lawman,” and “Angel.”
He was later cast in iconic shows such as “Leave It to Beaver,” “The Twilight Zone,” and “Have Gun â Will Travel.”
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Eimen was cast in a proposed 1961 TV drama from Desilu Productions called “Dr. Kate.” While the series never materialized, Eimen remembered it as his “big break.”
“It seemed that a big break had come my way when I was chosen to play her son Tommy in the seriesâ pilot,” he reportedly recalled. “With a sponsor in place, this show had the possibility to run for many years, considering Ms. Wymanâs status as an Academy Award-winning actress. However, she backed out of the deal, claiming dissatisfaction with the proposed âafter-primetimeâ schedule slot in the channel lineup.”
Eimen left Hollywood after a 1967 installment of “Petticoat Junction.”
Following his acting career, Eimen spent 25 years as a flight attendant for an international airline before retiring at age 71 in 2020, THR reported.
“After 25 wonderful (and at times turbulent) years I’ll be hanging up my flight attendant wings. I’m grateful to all of you that I’ve had the pleasure to work with over all this time, both at the Detroit and Seattle base,” he shared via Facebook in June 2020. “Great memories, no regrets!”
Tributes Poured In for John Eimen
After announcing his diagnosis via social media, friends of the late actor shared their love and condolences.
“We have known each other since 1st grade my life is so much better because of you ! I will always treasure your friendship forever â¤ï¸youâre best Bud Robert,” one friend commented.
“My heart aches right now. Nothing but love to you and your family. Thanks for the friendship, John – you are wonderful,” another wrote.
“Iâm so sorry youâre facing this. Iâm thinking of you and holding you close in my heart,” a third added.
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