Former Milwaukeean David Lewis Charne of New York City died at home Jan. 6, of cancer. He was 51.
A graduate of Shorewood High School in 1971, he earned a degree in theater arts in 1975 and a law degree in 1978, both from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
He left law school after his first year to work for Ringling Brothers Circus, according to his family. After graduating from law school, he moved to New York City, where he successfully combined his legal and performing careers.
“He delighted adults and children for over 19 years as Ronald McDonald. His legal clients included actors, animators, puppeteers, musicians and writers,” his family said.
In 2002, he graduated from the University of California-Los Angeles Film School’s Professional Program in Screenwriting. “In his final year he won the Screenwriting Program’s annual competition with his comedy script, ‘Don’t Cry Wolfe.’ [He] also had a successful career as a published novelist. His mystery series with St. Martin’s Press, written as David Charnee, included ‘To Kill a Clown’ and ‘Party ‘Til You Die,’” his family said.
Sought after as a performer, he played Monti Clark, trivia expert and entertainment personality. For 25 years, he worked with the Friar’s Club performing for underprivileged and disabled children.
He was a member of the New York and Wisconsin Bar Associations, Friar’s Club, Screen Actor’s Guild, Actor’s Equity and Congregation Ansche Chesed.
He is survived by wife Lisa Dubrow and daughter Madeline Charne, both of New York City; parents Irvin and Merla Charne of Milwaukee; and brother James (Laurie Hutzler) Charne of Santa Monica, Calif.
A memorial service is scheduled to be held in New York City on Feb. 25.
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