Eileen Saki, best known for playing bar owner Rosie PUREE, died. He was 79 years old.
PEOPLE confirmed that the actress died of pancreatic cancer in Los Angeles on Monday.
“Eileen Saki passed away peacefully on May 1 in Los Angeles,” her manager, Camilla Fluxman Pines, told PEOPLE. “I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January.”
“He was a lung cancer survivor in 2004,” he added. “She got a second chance to audition and work in the industry she loved so much – she shot several big commercials shortly before she was diagnosed.”
“He was often recognized by people who knew him ‘from somewhere’ and liked to talk to young actors about the journey, often by his face, or even just his voice.”
Jeff Maxwell, Saki’s ex costar who played Pvt. Igor Straminsky on the CBS series paid tribute to him in a Facebook post. MASH Matters Podcast.
“Our sweet Eileen. Our spoiled Rosie,” she shared. “On behalf of her husband, Bob, we offer our sincere appreciation to hundreds of people. PUREE Fans who filled Eileen’s final days with peace, courage and love. She read every email and replied to as many as she could.”
“During the day, we’ll be sharing more of Eileen Saki’s memories,” he added. “You are invited to do the same.”
“Our sweet Eileen. How we love you. How we will miss you. #GoodbyeFarewellandAmin”
Maxwell, 76, also shared a video of “her favorite Eileen Saki moments, including her latest commercial work, screen time with Mickey Rooney and Dom DeLuise, and a scene with a brash bartender.”
open PUREEShe played the role of Rosie for eight episodes after taking over from Frances Fong and Shizuko Hoshi.
in addition to working PUREE – Lasting 11 seasons from 1972 to 1983 – Saki had roles in the following TV series: CHiPs‘good times, Give me a break! And without a trace. He also acted on the big screen in the 1981s. World History, Part I With Mel Brooks and the 1984s Vault Played by Tom Hanks.
He most recently starred alongside LA Rams player Aaron Donald in an Uber Eats commercial.
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Saki is survived by her husband, Bob Borgen.