Was initiated into DeMolay at the John M. Cheney Chapter in Orlando Florida, in 1926. DeMolay is a Masonic youth organization for young men between 12 and 21. Was inducted into the DeMolay Hall of Fame on June 21st, 1996.
When he left Florida to arrive in New York City in 1928, he had $26.75 in his pocket. He and Vilma both formed the act, while attending supper clubs. In Vaudeville, they were known as "The Baby Astaires".
While filming "Barnaby Jones" (1973), he was hospitalized with pains in his legs. [2 July 1976].
Wrote a half dozen plays, five of which were produced, including a farce called Honest John in 1948 and Champagne General in 1973, a Civil War story. Also a part-time songwriter, he became a newly-published author of a romantic novel at the age of 93, titled Kelly's Quest.