Daniel von Bargen

Daniel von Bargen was an American character actor of film, television, and stage.

Daniel von Bargen was an American character actor of film, television, and stage. He was best known for playing Mr. Kruger on *Seinfeld* and Commandant Edwin Spangler on *Malcolm in the Middle*. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, he died in Montgomery, Ohio, in 2015 at age 64.

Early life and education

Daniel von Bargen was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and studied acting at Purdue University. He later performed for several years at Trinity Repertory Theatre in Providence, Rhode Island.

Stage career

Von Bargen's stage work included a Broadway debut in *Mastergate* in 1989. He also appeared in regional and repertory theatre before expanding into screen roles.

Film and television roles

He built a career as a character actor, often portraying stern or authoritative figures such as police officers and military officers. He became widely recognized for his roles in *Seinfeld*, *Malcolm in the Middle*, and *Super Troopers*.

Later life and death

Von Bargen had long-term diabetes and died in Montgomery, Ohio, in 2015 at age 64. Reports at the time noted serious health problems in the years before his death.