Actor, TV Director and Sculptor. Fondly remembered for playing teenager 'Wally Cleaver' in the TV series "Leave It to Beaver" (1957-1963). Born Anthony Lee Dow, his father was a designer and general contractor. After the run of the original series "Leave it to Beaver" ended in 1963, he continued his television career with appearances on the programs "Dr. Kildare," " Lassie," "Adam-12," and many others. He revived his character 'Wally Cleaver" for the updated "The New Leave It to Beaver" (1983 to 1989) and beginning in the late 1980s, he turned to directing and had credits with "Harry and the Hendersons," "Coach," and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine." He devoted much of his time to artistic endeavors including his handy work in the building of his beautiful home he called "Camp Dow." A long-time goal was always to return to sculpting. In the early 2000's Tony committed full time to his passion. His first work was created from burl wood found in the hills around his home. A friend and mentor, internationally recognized sculptor David Huenergardt, encouraged Tony to produce some of the pieces in bronze. His work was exhibited in an opening show at the DeBilzan Gallery in Laguna Beach, California.
In May 2022, Dow was diagnosed with liver cancer. He died on July 27, 2022, a day after his death was widely misreported.
Actor, TV Director and Sculptor. Fondly remembered for playing teenager 'Wally Cleaver' in the TV series "Leave It to Beaver" (1957-1963). Born Anthony Lee Dow, his father was a designer and general contractor. After the run of the original series "Leave it to Beaver" ended in 1963, he continued his television career with appearances on the programs "Dr. Kildare," " Lassie," "Adam-12," and many others. He revived his character 'Wally Cleaver" for the updated "The New Leave It to Beaver" (1983 to 1989) and beginning in the late 1980s, he turned to directing and had credits with "Harry and the Hendersons," "Coach," and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine." He devoted much of his time to artistic endeavors including his handy work in the building of his beautiful home he called "Camp Dow." A long-time goal was always to return to sculpting. In the early 2000's Tony committed full time to his passion. His first work was created from burl wood found in the hills around his home. A friend and mentor, internationally recognized sculptor David Huenergardt, encouraged Tony to produce some of the pieces in bronze. His work was exhibited in an opening show at the DeBilzan Gallery in Laguna Beach, California.
In May 2022, Dow was diagnosed with liver cancer. He died on July 27, 2022, a day after his death was widely misreported.
Bio by: C.S.
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