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'Seinfeld' actor, Purdue grad dies

Joel M. Beall, Cincinnati Enquirer

Daniel von Bargen, a Purdue graduate best known for his role as Mr. Kruger in "Seinfeld," has died, his family confirmed. He was 64.

A Cincinnati native, von Bargen was a veteran presence in the television, film and theater realms. Von Bargen made his name on stage, starring across Christopher Walken on a production of "Uncle Vanya," and won the Theatre World Award for his performance in "Mastergate."

These displays raised his profile, eventually earning parts on the big screen. Von Bargen had over 40 movie credits to his name, including "Basic Instinct," "Broken Arrow," "Super Troopers" and "O Brother, Where Art Thou?"

However, von Bargen's turn as George Costanza's dim-witted boss Mr. Kruger on "Seinfeld" gave him worldwide fame. He also grabbed attention as Commandant Edwin Spangler on the FOX sitcom "Malcom in the Middle."

In recent years, von Bargen struggled with various illnesses. In 2012, he suffered a self-inflicted gunshot. Von Bargen had battles with alcohol, as well as complications from diabetes.

Services for von Bargen will be private.