Jack Hanlon, who got his start as a child actor in the 1920’s, has died in Las Vegas. He was 96.

Hanlon appeared in two “Our Gang” comedies as a freckle-faced little boy and went on to roles in several films, including “Romance” with Greta Garbo. He eventually left the business at the tender age of 16 and became a paratrooper for the Army. After so many years out of Hollywood, Hanlon found it odd to watch his own films as an adult.

“He told me it was like watching someone else because it was a lifetime ago … Jack led a full life,” friend Bob Satterfield said.

Hanlon’s niece, Wendy Putnam Park, announced his death and had only fond memories of her uncle.

“He was absolutely the sweetest, most charming man,” Park said. “He loved talking about being in the movies if you brought the subject up. He loved sharing stories about being in them.”

Hanlon will be buried in Santa Monica, California. The cause of death, for now, is determined as natural.

(image)