Lola Dee Parents: Meet Meet Ida and Peter DeAngelis

In the vibrant tapestry of Lola Dee’s life, the threads of her journey were woven with love, melodies, and the unwavering support of her parents, Ida and Peter DeAngelis. Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1928, Lola Dee, whose real name was Lorraine DeAngelis, emerged as a popular singer in the 1950s, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

Peter DeAngelis, Lola’s father, was a drummer whose rhythmic beats likely served as the initial chords to Lola’s musical odyssey. From a tender age, Lola displayed a remarkable talent for singing, captivating her family with melodies that belied her years. It was within the embrace of her family, particularly her parents, that Lola’s passion for music blossomed.

Ida DeAngelis, Lola’s mother, whose maiden name was Amici, played a pivotal role in nurturing Lola’s burgeoning talent. With encouragement and support, Lola embarked on her musical journey, participating in amateur shows from the age of 9. A fateful audition for the American Broadcasting Company’s Junior Junction at the age of 14 marked the beginning of Lola’s ascent into the national spotlight.

During her teenage years, Lola, then known as “The Little Princess,” became a staff singer for ABC, a testament to her vocal prowess. It was during this time that she signed a recording contract with Mercury Records, beginning a prolific collaboration with the Al Trace Orchestra. Under the stage name Lola Ameche, she recorded hits like “Pretty Eyed Baby” and “Hitsity Hotsity,” showcasing her versatility as a swing artist.

The DeAngelis family, including Lola’s brother Carl and sister Stella, must have watched with pride as Lola’s star ascended in the music industry. Despite her success, Lola made a poignant choice to step back from her musical career to care for her mother when Alzheimer’s touched their lives. This selfless act underscored the deep familial bonds that defined Lola’s life.

As Lola’s final public performances echoed through the stadiums, singing the national anthem for the Chicago Bears and Chicago White Sox in 1978, the spirit of her parents, Ida and Peter, lingered in the notes. Lola’s legacy is not just a testament to her individual talent but a tribute to the foundation laid by the DeAngelis family—a foundation built on love, support, and the timeless melodies that continue to resonate through the ages.