YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - A Youngstown-born actor notable for his roles in "Happy Days and "Star Wars" has died.

Gary Friedkin passed away on December 2 at Hospice House at the age of 70.

Friedkin had spent three and a half weeks in the intensive care unit at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital due to complications from COVID.

He was born on November 23, 1952 in Youngstown and was a 1970 graduate of The Rayen High School.

In high school, Friedkin was a member of multiple school and local bands, including The Solars. He went on to attend the Dana School of Music at Youngstown State University before heading out to Los Angeles to begin his four decades-long acting career.

During his career, he worked with a who's who of Hollywood actors including Ed O'Neil, Chevy Chase, Henry Winkler, Carrie Fisher, Julia Roberts, Whoopie Goldberg and Jennifer Aniston.

Friedkin appeared in a number of films and TV shows, including as an Ewok in the Star Wars Trilogy. He also had roles in "Mother's Day", "Young Doctors in Love", "Happy Days", and "The Practice."

A scholarship has been established in his name at YSU.

The family is planning a celebration of life that will be held in the spring of 2023.