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'Volare' Singer, 50s Era Crooner Jerry Vale Dies At 83

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) —  Singer Jerry Vale, a popular crooner in the 1950s and 60s who also appeared in the films "Goodfellas," "Casino" and the television series "The Sopranos" has died at his home in Palm Desert, according to published reports.

Vale died today at his home while surrounded by family and friends. He was 83.

His death was announced by family attorney Harold J. Levy.

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The Italian-American singer, born Genaro Louis Vitaliano, in the Bronx, was known for songs such as "You Don't Know Me" and "Volare." He also hit the Adult Contemporary with "Have you Looked Into Your Heart" and "Time Alone Will Tell."

Through his career, he released more than 35 albums.

While in high school in New York City, he took a job shining shoes. The bosses liked his singing so much the paid for Vale to take singing lessons.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Rita; a son, Robert; and daughter, Pamela.

(©2014 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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