John Edward Craven; Retired Actor

John (Eddie) Edward Craven, who appeared in films and Broadway plays, has died at his Studio City home. He was 83.

Craven died Tuesday of heart failure, said his son, Christopher Craven of Studio City.

Born in New York City, Craven graduated from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Economics. Craven, whose grandparents were founding members of the Boston Theatre Co., directed Broadway plays and acted in “Tortilla Flats,” “Three Men on a Horse” and “Sailor Beware” in the early 1930s in New York. He came to California in the mid-1930s and appeared in several films, including “The Gilded Lilly” (1935), “The Invisible Menace” (1938) and “Down Missouri Way” (1946).

Craven was a member of the Screen Actors Guild, American Federation of Television & Radio Artists, Actors Equity Assn., Self-Realization Fellowship and Alcoholics Anonymous.

In addition to his son, Craven is survived by his wife, Jeanne Craven; daughter, Mary Craven of Studio City; and three grandchildren.

At his request, no services are planned.

Pierce Brothers Valhalla Mortuary in North Hollywood is handling the arrangements. Donations can be made in Craven’s name to Alcoholics Anonymous.