Comic-actor Hiram Kasten, best known for his appearances on popular television shows such as Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Saved By the Bell, has sadly passed away at the age of 71. Kasten, who had been battling prostate cancer, died at his home in Batavia, New York, surrounded by his loved ones.

The news of Kasten's passing was announced in an obituary posted on his Facebook page on Sunday afternoon. The obituary mentioned that Kasten died in the arms of his wife, Diana Kisiel Kastenbaum, on the day of their 38th wedding anniversary. It revealed that Kasten had been dealing with multiple health issues including prostate cancer and Crohn's disease over the past seven years.

Kasten made a memorable appearance in three episodes of Seinfeld in the early 1990s, portraying the character Michael, a coworker of Elaine Benes. His performance caught the attention of Seinfeld himself, leading to a lasting friendship that spanned 45 years. Kasten's love for show business was evident, but his role as a family man was his most fulfilling, according to the obituary.

The obituary highlighted Kasten's pride and love for his daughter, Millicent Jade Kastenbaum, who has made significant achievements in her career as an Assistant District Attorney. Beyond Seinfeld, Kasten also appeared on various sitcoms of the 90s, including Saved By the Bell, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Cybill, Mad About You, and Everybody Loves Raymond.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Kasten was a staple on the New York City comedy circuit, performing at renowned clubs such as The Improv, The Comedy Cellar, Caroline's, and Dangerfield's. He even had a Las Vegas show titled "The Rat Pack is Back" at the Desert Inn.

Kasten's family announced that funeral services will be held at Schwartz Brothers-Jeffers Memorial Chapel in Forest Hills, New York, with details to be announced later, and a memorial service in Los Angeles is planned for the coming summer. Survived by his wife Diana, daughter Millicent Jade, and brother-in-law Kevin John Kisiel, Kasten's family requests that any memorial tributes be made in the form of charitable donations to either Crossroads House or the Entertainment Community Fund.

Hiram Kasten will be remembered for his talent, his contributions to the world of comedy, and most importantly, his devotion to his family. His vibrant presence on and off-screen will be sorely missed by his loved ones and the entertainment industry.