Valentin M. Berezhkov, 82, a Russian diplomat who translated for Josef Stalin and other Soviet officials during crucial World War II conferences, died Friday of a heart attack in Claremont, Calif., two months after undergoing heart surgery.

Before World War II, Mr. Berezhkov was an assistant to Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov and first secretary of the Soviet Embassy in Berlin, where he translated for officials in their meetings with Nazi leaders.

Dick O'Neill, 70, whose nearly half-century in entertainment included roles ranging from Santa Claus on "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" to Detective Chris Cagney's father on "Cagney & Lacey," died Nov. 17 in Santa Monica, Calif.

Although his long list of television credits also include such hit series as "Home Improvement," "Family Matters" and "M-A-S-H," Mr. O'Neill may be best known for his recurring role as Charlie Cagney, father of the police detective played by Sharon Gless. His film credits include "The Front Page," "The Jerk," "Wolfen," "Prizzi's Honor" and "MacArthur."

Pub Date: 11/25/98