Winters died of natural causes in Montecito, Calif, surrounded by friends and family.
Winters' career began when he won a talent contest, which led to radio gigs and appearances at comedy clubs. He was a staple on the late night TV circuit for decades -- he was one of Jack Paar's favorite guests and a Johnny Carson regular -- and recorded several classic comedy albums.
He often performed in character ... the best known of which was Maude Frickert, the seemingly sweet old lady with a quick and acid wit. He also starred in one of the best comedies ever -- "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World."
Winters -- who was Native American -- won the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, which was presented to him at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. in 2000.
He was born in my hometown, Dayton, Ohio, and I know on a few occasions my brother went to parties in homes where he was the informal entertainment. I remember many years ago, I had a paper route, and my Mom took me downtown to open a savings account, at Winters National Bank, he was a descendant of the founder. He was unique, to say the least, I have laughed many times at his rhetoric.
