Frank Bank Dies – Played “Lumpy” on “Leave it to Beaver”

Frank Bank, who portrayed Clarence “Lumpy” Rutherford on the “Leave It To Beaver” TV show has died.  Bank passed away just one day after his 71st birthday from an undisclosed illness.

While Bank played a somewhat clumsy bully during the series’ entire run, Jerry Mathers who portrayed Beaver says he was a very kind and gentle person in real life.  Other than reprising his “Lumpy” role in some reunion shows, it was Bank’s only well-known role.  He did write an autobiography about his Hollywood years.

The book was called, ”Call Me Lumpy: My Leave It To Beaver Days and Other Wild Hollywood Life.” It drew attention for focusing less on fond memories of “Leave It to Beaver” and more on Bank’s sexual escapades.

He left acting in the 70′s and became a bond broker, handling accounts for Mathers and Barbara Billingsley, the woman who portrayed the Beaver’s Mother.

Did you watch "Leave It To Beaver" growing up? Do you watch it with your kids? Who is your favorite character & why?