Deana,
this is not a question, it is a response to your book, which
I have just, finished reading. I have never in all my 56 years
ever read a book with such compelling need to get to the next
chapter and then when I finished, just so much emotion. I feel
like I traveled those years with you. It was a wonderful feeling
and one, which has brought me closer to knowing your father through
your words and memories. I never respond to these types of sites
but I felt the need to 'Keep the Cards and Letters coming'.
Thank you so much.
Dave
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED YOUR BOOK!!!! I loved reading it and couldn't
put it down. I was 10 years old when we watched your father's show
on TV. There hasn't been a show quite like it since...and, never
will be. The spontaneity, the wit, the humor is unmatched!!!! I
loved your father--his comedy, his style, his songs, etc. As I
slowly read the end of your book, I was crying. You certainly brought
back a time that was fun, when the world was entertained by such
great talents--your dad, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jerry Lewis,
etc... I want to thank you for writing it as, actually, I have
been looking for a book on Dean Martin--and haven't found a good
one--'til now.
So, THANK YOU for absolutely opening your heart, and inviting the
readers in to your life and sharing the painful as well as the
wonderful stories you have. I imagine it probably was hard to put
in writing parts of your life that was far from being pleasant.
Are you planning to do book signing in the San Francisco (or Fremont)
area? If so, WHEN? Would be absolutely thrilled to meet you!!!!!!
Jackie
Of the East Bay
Deana,
I have no question to ask. I just want to tell you how much I enjoyed
your book...thank you so much for writing it...
Thank You
Judy Pillion
Dear Deana,
I just finished reading your book. I grew up listening to your
dad and rocked my grandson to sleep with a "DINO"
compact disc, playing in the background. Now, my 10-year-old grandson
still enjoys evenings when he is with me listening to those same
songs (though he'd never admit it to his friends). Thanks for the
wonderful recount of your life with your dad. You answered many
questions I had always wondered about. I think I love him even
more now. You are brave and talented women. Best of Luck.
Sincerely,
Judy Keels
Hi Deana,
I just finished reading your book on New Years Day. What a way
to start the New Year!!!!!
I laughed tremendously.... I cried uncontrollably...And I thought
of how much pleasure your father has brought me over the years.
I only listen to your dad's music. It keeps me and my dogs calm...hahhahah.
They really do calm down the minute they hear your dads' voice
come on.
Fantastic book!!!!! Thanks for letting us into your youth and answering
so many questions. I think I will have to hit Steubenville next
year!!!!!
Happy New Year to you and John...
Thanks,
Rusty White
NO QUESTION. I JUST FINISHED YOUR BOOK ON YOU, AND YOUR
FATHERS LIFE. THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD THAT I READ IT IN
JUST A COUPLE OF DAYS.
THANK YOU FOR SHARING,
SUSAN AND WILL
Deana not a question just a thank you for your book
on Dean. As a lifelong fan I found your book rewarding,
entertaining and just great to read.
Thanks again for the memories
Charles
Hello Deana,
Just got finished with your book and it was fabulous. Brought back
lots of memories of my family and I watching any movie or show
that had to do with your Dad. I still have tears in my eyes.
Thank you for the memories.
Ben
Dear Deana,
I can truthfully say that I have been a fan of Dean Martin my entire
life, and now at 40 years old, that is beginning to add up. My
only regret is never being able to see him perform in concert.
However, I have shared his music with my own kids to help bring
about a whole new generation of fans. When my nine-year old daughter
wanted to play a Dean Martin CD at her birthday party, I knew I
had done my part. I am thankful for your willingness to keep his
music and memory alive through your hands-on participation. He
was a talented, charismatic artist and it is obvious that much
of that grace, charm and talent passed on to his daughter as well.
I look forward to returning from military duty in time to catch
one of your book signings back home in Florida.
James
Hello! I am 22 years old and I have been captivated by your father
for about 3 years now. I was first very interested in his music
and my father introduced me to his movies and the Dean Martin
Variety Show, which I find extremely hilarious. I am currently
reading your book and I'm totally enthralled in it. I grew
up in Beverly, not too far from Steubenville and I think it's
very neat that his hometown is not far from mine. I don't really
have a question for you, I just wanted to tell you that I enjoy
reading your book and I enjoy listening to your father's music
and watching his movies and shows. The only thing that I dislike
is that I wasn't able to see any of his shows in person! Thank
you for sharing your life and his with the world.
Cassie
Hi Deana,
I am an Ohio woman, born and raised in Columbus, Ohio and now living
in a suburb of Columbus, called Westerville, with my husband and
2 kids. I just finished your book and I loved it! I tried to read
it slow so I could savor every minute, I could hardly put the book
down. I laughed out loud and cringed at some parts and felt so
sad for you at parts especially when your father sent you the bill
for your new car that you thought he had bought for you. I also
felt so happy for you when your father called you up and asked
you to make him some more pasta fagioli. I just did not want the
book to end; I swear it felt like you were visiting with me and
sharing your life, the book read that easy! My dad was a huge Dean
Martin fan. My dad passed away on fathers day, 1983. I was 18.
After he died I became a fan of Dean Martin as a way to keep my
dad feeling close and along the way I became a fan in my own right.
I cannot wait to attend the Dean Martin festival in June; I hope
I get a chance to meet you; will you be signing copies of your
book? Best Wishes and congrats on a GREAT book!
All my love,
Kim
Hello Kim,
Yes, I will definitely be at the 2005 Dean Martin Festival in Steubenville,
Ohio signing my book. I look forward to seeing you there.
Deana
I just finished your book and loved it. One question, I have been
looking for a DVD of the Christmas shows that your Dad did
(the specials and/or the Christmas shows from the Dean Martin
show). Do you have any plans to put them on DVD???
Brent
Hi Brent,
Sorry, but not at this time.
Deana
Dear Deana,
I don't have a question, but I didn't know how else to write you
and thank you for sharing your wonderful father with us. I loved
him so dearly. It's strange how an entertainer can become so much
a part of your life and you feel such a loss when he's gone. Yet,
you've never met him. That is how I feel about your dad. If I may
take a moment of your time, I'd like to tell you something that
happened this past March 2004. My daughter from Texas was taking
her daughter to Universal Studios and she was coming through Arizona
to pick me up to go with them. She called a few days before she
started her trip out here, and asks me to think of something I'd
like to see while in LA. I called her back and told her I wanted
to go to the cemetery. Cemetery! she said. I told her yes that
I had gone on the Internet to find out where Dean was buried and
I wanted to visit his grave. I put my head against his crypt and
cried and cried. She said, " Mother, you have actually been closer
to him just now then many people who went to his shows. I had never
wanted to go to Vegas but for one reason to see Dean Martin. Those
days I couldn't afford Vegas. Now that I live so close, the only
one I wanted to see in Vegas is no longer there.
Your book made me laugh, your book made me cry. I still cry when
I play his music, but I can't stop listening. I miss him so much.
God Bless you Deana and thanks again.
Kathy
Happy New Year Deana!
I got the best present for Christmas this year from my beautiful
children and husband..... your book! They figured that it would
be the perfect gift for me since I am always looking for anything
about Dean Martin!! I loved reading all about your family. I told
my mother that I got your book and she told me that she could remember
me always watching Dean Martin on T.V. and that I liked him since
I was 2 years old! The fact is that I LOVED him since then and
I still can't get enough of him at age 41!! My only regret is that
I never got to meet him or see him perform live in concert.
You didn't really mention anything about your father's older brother
Bill in your book. Did your father and he get along and have any
kind of relationship? Also, was he involved with your father's
show in any way because I think I remember seeing a Bill Martin
in the credits? It seems to me that he passed away shortly after
the time your grandparents died. (Late 1960's early 1970's). What
was his cause of death?
One other thing I always wondered was about your brother Craig.
Was he named after someone since his first name is really Stephen?
Thanks again for sharing your memories with us.
Joan
(Grand Rapids, MI)
Dear Deana:
I don't have a question for you, I just want to say that I just
read your book about your father and I thought it was a very beautiful
book. Thank-you so much for such a wonderful reading experience.
Sincerely,
Paul
Hi Deana,
I just wanted to let you know that I have been a fan of your Dad
ever since I can remember. (I'm ten years older than you are so
that gives you an idea of the great influence he had on me. I wanted
to let you know that I just finished reading your book about your
Dad. I found it to be most moving and great tribute to your Dad.
He was my favorite out of the Rat Pack not only because he was
just so talented and good looking, but also because he seemed to
me to be a very genuine human being and one that absolutely loved
what he was doing. Thank you for the book and allowing me and others
to come into the Martin family home. I have added attending the
Dean Martin Festival on my list of things to do in the future.
Sincerely,
Beth Nelson
St. Paul, MN
First, I would like to thank you for the wonderful book about your
father, my mother in-law purchased 3 copies and had them signed
at the Wal-Mart in Steubenville and gave them to myself and
my 2 sons, and I must say that my 11 year old told me it was
the best Christmas present he could have gotten. I hope that
1 of your stops will be in Columbus, Ohio; my family would
love the opportunity to meet you as we are all great fans of
your father. They are looking forward to traveling home to
Steubenville for the Dean Martin festival, we hope to see you.
All the best,
Pat
Dear Deana,
I got your book for Christmas and it was wonderful. I use to think
that I was your fathers biggest fan, but now I know I am just one
of millions. I'm going to make the pasta fagioli and think of you
and your father. When will the festival be in 2005?
You take care!
Michael
Hi Michael,
I hope you enjoy the pasta fagioli as much as my father. The festival information
is posted on my web site and will be held on June 17th and 18th this year.
I hope to see you there.
Deana
Hi Deana,
I have just finished your book and I loved it after being a fan
of Deans for 50 years. Are there any DVDs of his shows?
Peter.
Hello Peter,
Yes, there are DVD’s of my father’s television show available
on many Internet locations, including amazon.com.
Deana
Hi Deana! I loved the book. Your efforts and hard work you have
invested in the book is truly appreciated by all of us.
My question regards the bracelet (watch?) that your dad is seen
wearing in many photos throughout his life. Did that hold any significance
to him? Is there a story behind that?
Thanks!
Ed
Hi Ed,
All I can tell you is, he loved that watch.
Deana
Dear Deana,
I just finished reading your book and I'm at a loss for
words. I've been a fan of your fathers for many years
and have collected several albums, the roasts, movies,
and videos from his television show, which by the way,
I never missed when it was on. I’ve
often wondered what happened to your mother. I have to tell you
that I was very moved by the stories you told of her. It was heartbreaking.
But, even though I cried while reading certain parts of your book,
I also laughed. Several months before Dean passed away, I'd written
a fan letter to him. It took awhile, but I finally received an
autographed (at least I pray it's his signature) picture of him.
It is proudly framed and prominent in my home. I also went to see
your brother Ricci doing his tribute to Dean. What a wonderful
show! And you can bet I had my picture taken with him! Your father
was truly the King of Cool and I know he's smiling down from heaven
and so proud of his family. Thank you so much for sharing your
life and Deans life with his fans. Whenever I've had a bad day,
all I have to do is pop in a video and I'm laughing along with
your Dad.
Thank you,
Kathy
Hi
Deana,
My name is Chad Geese and I just wanted to tell you that
I am a huge fan of Dean! I am 21 years old and Italian
decent. My grandmother was married and her family came
from Naples, Italy. I can remember hearing Dean play
in the record player when I was just a little boy. Anyways
enough about me. I was wondering when the festival was
in Steubenville and if it would be possible to meet you.
If you could get back to me whenever you have time. I'm
sure you are very busy. But I would love to hear from
you. Thanks for your time.
Sincerely,
Chad
Hello Chad,
The festival information is posted on my web site and this year will be held
on June 17th and 18th and I will definitely be there.
Deana
What song title was on the tombstone of Dean Martin?
Thanks,
Carl
Hi Carl,
“Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime”
Deana
Hi Deana,
I know this is really weird but I'm 18 and I have been obsessed
with Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. They are both wonderful entertainers
and I cant even begin to tell you how much memorabilia I buy of
your father. Reading your book, verse other biographies; I’ve
learned how your father was not the typical Hollywood jerk. He
was the coolest guy in the world and Jerry was the funniest. Watching
CBS's "Martin & Lewis" I was confused if that was really how
your father was. He was sort of portrayed as a two timing jerk,
but I have a feeling your father was exactly the opposite. Also
I was wondering how Jerry is doing. Since I'm only 18, I feel kind
of awkward yet really exciting. I was the only teenager in high
school on the Homecoming committee who insisted Dean Martin be
played at the dance. Every one I meet who asks me who he is, and
I keep telling them and their still confused, their not worth talking
to. Well if you ever talk to Jerry, tell him how wonderful he is
and always will be, and Ashli loves him!
Hello Ashi,
I speak with Jerry frequently, and I will tell
him that Ashli loves him.
Deana
Dear Deana,
I just finished reading "Memories Are Made of This"
and had to tell you how touched I was by it. I was in tears by
the end of the book and want to thank you so much for writing it.
I've been a fan of your dad's since the beginning of
Martin & Lewis
when I was a teenager. My greatest regret is that I never saw his
show in Las Vegas. I was either too young to visit Vegas (according
to my parents!) or, once I was old enough, I couldn't afford the
trip, and was busy raising my 2 children.
I did start going to Vegas 20 years ago and now go
3-4 times a year. I saw the "Rat Pack Tribute" show and enjoyed it, but would
have preferred to see the "real thing."
Anyway, I was fascinated by the story of your life
-- the good times and bad -- and learned a lot about
your dad I didn't know before. Thank you again for
writing it (I'm sure it's a huge bestseller!) and may
God bless you and your family. I cried when I read
about the loss of your brother, sister, and mother,
and even more when your dad passed away. But I know
you have good memories of all of them, and after all, "Memories
Are Made of This!"
Best wishes for a happy and successful life ...
Your friend,
Sue Casey
Des Plaines, IL
Deana,
No real question for you, simply a note of admiration
of your father's career. I love his music and the first
movie I can ever remember going to as a young child
was Rio Bravo. To this day it still remains one of my
favorites with your dad's performance as "Dude". Just
started your book and can't put it down. Thank you for such a heart
felt look into your past experiences. All the best to you and your
family.
Best regards,
Barry DeMaris
More of a comment. I just got done reading your book. What a wonderful
book. I had finally gotten through to my family that all I've
ever wanted for Christmas, birthdays...any day, was anything
to do with Dean Martin. This past Christmas I got so many things
that I sat there and cried. I was so happy. Your dad has always
filled me with such emotion. Since watching him when I was
a little girl, he just captured me! Thank you so much for sharing
your life. You are a remarkable woman!
Mia
Your
dad was the best. I remember when Martin and Lewis team broke up;
it was big news with my Italian family. My question is what was
his favorite Italian food?
Hi Vinny,
My grandmother’s pasta fagioli, and her recipe
is in my new book.
Deana
Hi Deana,
Just read your book (I have 3 copies now cause I ordered them on
different Amazon stores worldwide to get it fast) it was terrific!
Regarding the cologne from your daddy-yes its discontinued but
you can buy it via eBay (like I did) the recipe from your grandma
was funny to do but I have a feeling that this is like a poor family
meal?!
I am into dean right now for some years (I am 33) and I am very
sad that I never had a chance to see him live. But last year I
when I was in LA I was at Westwood.
Here is my question:
Do you have any information about some recordings from deans live
gigs (ALSO THE LAST ONES IN VEGAS) BECAUSE YOU KNOW THERE ONLY
A FEW FOR ME TO GET:
I CAN’T BELIEVE THAT THÈRE IS NO MORE FROM THE FROM
A MAN LIKE DEAN:
Have you noticed that someone sold Dean's driver license on eBay?
Hello Thorsten,
No, I did not know dad’s driver license was
for sale on eBay.
Deana
Deana,
From 1948 to 1995 I collected virtually everything related to your
Dad. Was encouraged to follow the entertainment path, but chose
airplanes.
I met Dean Paul when he toured with the pro-tennis teams in KCMo.
He was a gentle, kind and courteous young man. I enjoyed his company.
Did you, by chance, know the late Tom 'Chris' Connelly (Peyton
Place-TV) who commented about being in your home?
Wonderful book....
Dave
Hi Dave,
Yes, I remember meeting Chris Connelly a few times.
Deana
This may be a strange question, but if you watched your dad sing
a song I’ve always wondered if you have to sneeze while
singing what do you do. Or if you have to cough what happens.
Hi Alexandra,
I have no idea, since it has never happened to
me, but if it did…I would just say, “excuse
me” and continue on.
Deana
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