Met his future wife, Gale Storm, in 1939 when they became the first place winners of Jesse L. Lasky's "Gateway to Hollywood" talent contest.
Acted in school plays before performing in college productions at Indiana University, where he also studied business and economics.
After his acting career ended, he moved into selling life insurance and eventually set up his own company , the Lee Bonnell Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Agency in Encino, CA.
He was there for his wife, Gale Storm in the 1970s when she battled acute alcoholism. At one point she had to be institutionalized.
Tried to enlist during WWII but poor eyesight deemed him unfit for duty. He subsequently served with the Coast Guard.
When I look back on the "Gateway to Hollywood" [radio] program, I do so warmly. It opened doors for me I could not have dreamed of. Above all, it introduced me to [Gale Storm]. I've been more than happy about the professional life I've created.