Mort R. Lewis; Writer Taught CPR to Movie Industry

Mort R. Lewis, 82, veteran writer for radio, television and film who advocated and taught cardiopulmonary resuscitation to the movie industry. Beginning as a radio comedy writer for entertainers such as Jimmy Durante, Jackie Gleason and George Burns, Lewis moved to television where he was co-creator of “The Public Defenders” and a regular contributor on such series as “Bonanza,” “Truth or Consequences” and “This Is Your Life.” The American Heart Assn. and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors honored him for his CPR efforts. Lewis was also a recognized expert on the Civil War and an early advocate of televised debates between presidential candidates. On Tuesday in Santa Monica of pneumonia.