Born Norman Adelberg in 1924, he served in the Army during World War II. At the end of the conflict he had the opportunity to benefit from the GI Bill program meant to help returning soldiers to start or resume studying. That is how, while attending Texas Christian University, he discovered on the boards of on-campus theater that he had a talent for acting. This was the beginning of a long, long career. Though most of the time in small or even bit parts, Alden, worked for such big names as 'Howard Hawks' . The director must have been very pleased with Alden for, as Andy Chadakis - the retarded son of elderly Greek immigrants - he showed remarkable acting ability . Unfortunately, the film was little seen and the gifted actor landed no other parts of such importance and quality afterward.
Played Lou the mechanic in a series of AC Delco commercials. He was so convincing that people would actually come up to him and tell him their car problems.
He is survived by his son, Brent Alden and daughter, Ashley from a previous marriage; two stepsons, Randy Thieben and Kevin Thieben; a stepdaughter, Sherri Thieben; with his long term partner of more than 30 years, Linda Thieben, of Los Angeles, California. He is also survived by a step granddaughter.
Alden appeared or did voice work in about 2,500 movies, TV series and commercials.
He also performed in commercials, most notably as Lou the mechanic in AC Delco advertisements.
Retired in 2006 at the age of 82.
Aldens star turn came in 1965, in the picaresque "Andy." Andy, the 40-year-old mentally disabled son of Greek immigrants in New York, sets out for a last night of seedy adventures before his parents commit him to an asylum.
Alden acted in television and film for 50 years.
His partner of more than 30 years was Linda Thieben, and her two sons and daughter were referred to as Aldens stepchildren.
Upon his death, he was cremated and his ashes are with his family.
He studied at Texas Christian University in Texas. He served in the United States Military during World War II where he was stationed in Europe.
Retired from acting at the age of 82.
It was when Peter Criss failed to show for looping that Aldens voice was overdubbed for the KISS drummer in the TV movie, "KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park," which was produced by Hanna-Barbera, the same folks that employed Alden to voice Aquaman in the "Super Friends" cartoon series.
