Oscar Homolka Dies at 79, Veteran Character Actor

Oscar Homolka, 79, a character actor who appeared in hundreds of stage, film and television shows in Europe and this country, died Friday in Sussex, England.

He had moved there 12 years ago after living in New York. He originally had come to this country in 1937.

Mr. Homolka played on Broadway in "Grey Farm" and "The Innocent Voyage", but became best known for his characterization of Uncle Chris in both the stage and screen versions of "I Remember mama."

Other Hollywood pictures included "Rage in Heaven," "Seven Sinners," "Mission to Moscow," "Hostages" and "The Seven Year Itch."

Other Broadway plays included "The Last Dance," "Bravo" and "The Master Builder."

Born in Vienna, Austria, Mr. Homolka scored his first theatrical triumph as "Richard III" there. He had a repertory career in Munich and Berlin, performing for nine years under Max Reinharct. His roles included a portrayal of "The Emperor Jones."

Mr. Homolka fled Germany and Austria because of the Nazis. He moved to England, where he appeared in such plays as "Close Quarters" and "The Power and the Glory" and such films as "Rhodes of Africa" and "I Married a Murderer."

He is survived by two sons, Lawrence and Vincent.