David Tomlinson; British Actor Played the Father in ‘Mary Poppins’ Film

David Tomlinson, 83, the British actor most famous for his role as George Banks, the father of the two children in the 1964 musical film “Mary Poppins.” Tomlinson, who appeared in more than 50 movies before his retirement in the early 1980s, followed his success in “Mary Poppins” with appearances in “The Love Bug” in 1969 and “Bedknobs and Broomsticks,” opposite Angela Lansbury, in 1971. Born in Henley-on-Thames, England, Tomlinson began working in the theater in the 1930s, once serving as understudy to Alec Guinness. He was a Royal Air Force pilot during World War II and continued his film career after the war. He generally appeared as a light leading man and character comedian in British films and in family-oriented American productions. “I’m used to working with children, chimney sweeps and cartoon animals,” he once said. “You’ve got to believe in what you’re doing, especially if you’re playing comedy or farce, which is what I like best.” On Saturday in London of complications after a series of strokes.