Martin Balsam rises to the challenge
In the early part of the film he seems like merely an ineffectual husband. But as the movie progresses Balsam's role expands and he really delivers. His monologue on the field where he once fought in the war is fantastic, and he played the part of the long-suffering but loving husband extremely well. One of his best performances imo.
"I'll book you. I'll book you on something. I'll find something in the book to book you on."