Jack De Mave, an actor from New Jersey with a career spanning more than four decades, passed away on January 16, 2025, at the age of 91. Known for his roles in beloved TV shows like “Lassie” and “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” De Mave left behind a legacy of memorable performances.

A Life in Acting

John Francois De Mave was born in Jersey City, New Jersey. His father, also named Jack De Mave, was a heavyweight boxer from Holland, while his mother, Helen, worked as a Broadway casting director. These influences likely shaped De Mave’s path toward a life in the performing arts.

De Mave began his career on Broadway, appearing in the 1958 production of “The Visit.” This early success led to opportunities in television, and in 1962, he made his TV debut on the ABC detective series “Surfside 6,” set on a houseboat in Miami Beach.

Memorable TV Roles

Jack De Mave became widely known for his portrayal of forest ranger Bob Erickson on the classic CBS series “Lassie.” He appeared in the show from 1968 to 1970, endearing himself to audiences as he worked alongside the iconic collie. Another notable role came in the 1970s when he portrayed The Lone Ranger in Frito-Lay commercials, further cementing his presence in pop culture.

De Mave also guest-starred on popular shows like “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” where he appeared in two episodes during the first and second seasons. In his first appearance, he played one of Rhoda Morgenstern’s (Valerie Harper) dates, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Movie and Soap Opera Career

Beyond television, Jack De Mave had roles in several films, including:

“Blindfold” (1966) with Rock Hudson

“1776” (1972)

“The Man Without a Face” (1993), directed by and starring Mel Gibson

In addition to movies, De Mave appeared in numerous soap operas. In 1998, he played Dr. Gregory Eldridge on “Days of Our Lives.” He also had recurring roles on “Loving” as Leroy Silver and “The Bold and the Beautiful” as Cal Clinton.

Other Notable Performances

Jack De Mave worked on a variety of television series throughout his career, including guest spots on:

“F Troop”

“The Doris Day Show”

“The F.B.I.”

“Wagon Train”

“Daniel Boone”

One of his standout TV movie roles was in “Hello Mother, Goodbye!” (1974), where he played the son of Bette Davis’ character.

Final Years

Jack De Mave spent his final days in hospice care in Macon, Georgia. He suffered a heart attack on Thanksgiving and passed away peacefully on January 16, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Despite his passing, his work continues to be celebrated by fans and the entertainment industry alike.

A Legacy Remembered

With over 40 years in the entertainment business, Jack De Mave leaves behind a rich legacy of performances that spanned Broadway, television, and film. From his role in “Lassie” to guest appearances on beloved series, De Mave’s contributions to the entertainment world will not be forgotten.

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