Edward Paul `` Ed '' Flanders ( December 29 , 1934 -- February 22 , 1995 ) was an American actor best known for his role as Dr. Donald Westphall in the television series `` St. Elsewhere '' .
Edward Paul `` Ed '' Flanders ( December 29 , 1934 -- February 22 , 1995 ) was an American actor . He was best known for playing Dr. Donald Westphall in the television series `` St. Elsewhere '' .