JIMMY "SCHNOZZOLA" DURANTE - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 10/20/1968 - HFSID 251717

JIMMY DURANTE
Jimmy Durante sends a typed letter giving of thanks for the telegrams.
Typed Letter signed: "Jimmy", 1p, 7¼x10½. Beverly Hills, California, 1968 October 20. On personal letterhead to Mr. Ken Murray, Beverly Hills, California. In full: "Thanks a million for the lovely telegram you sent while I was appearing at the New Frontier in Las Vegas. Believe me Ken, I want you to know from the bottom of my heat that I appreciate your thoughtfulness and concern. Margie is coming along just fine and with the help of God, it won't be too long before she is up an around again. Thanks again and my very best wishes to you and Bette. Love 'n kisses," Fold crease not near signature. Fine condition. Included typed address envelope. Postmarked Van Nuys, California, 1968 October 20. Fine condition. Margie is his second wife, Marjorie Little Durante, a former hat check girl at the Copacabana, whom he married in 1960. JimmyDurante (1893-1980), known to family, friends and fans as "The Schnozzola" because of his Cyrano-sized nose, began his career as a piano player on the Lower East Side of New York City. He and his partners, dancers Eddie Jackson and Lou Clayton, were overnight sensations on vaudeville, and Durante later lent his talents to films, radio and television as well as being a popular performer in nightclubs and on stage. His act included telling jokes, playing the piano and singing in his raspy voice. Two of his most popular songs were "Inka Dinka Doo" and "Won't You Come Home, Bill Bailey?" Durante was also well known for his trademark sign off line, "Goodnight, Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are." He often performed without pay, with the proceeds going to the Children's Fund of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Two items.