Peter Van Norden, a character actor whose career spanned five decades, passed away Thursday in California at age 75. He was widely recognised for his comedic role as Vinnie Schtulman in 'Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment' and for portraying farmer Ralph Brentner in Stephen King's 1994 television adaptation of 'The Stand.'

Van Norden began his career in theatre, performing in classic productions before transitioning to film in 1979. He built a substantial television presence throughout the 1980s and beyond, appearing regularly on shows including 'Cheers,' 'Murder, She Wrote,' 'Family Ties,' and later 'ER' and '9-1-1.' He is survived by his wife Wendy and son Robert.