HAVE OFTEN WALKED Burt Young found East Elmhurst to be a little rocky

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

Michael Morea was born on April 15, 1906 in Manhattan, the son of a coal dealer. He married Josephine Tarulli in May 1934. Their first-born was Robert, on Jan. 6 1938; a second son followed on April 30, 1940, named Richard. They briefly rented on 102nd Street in Corona, then moved to 38th Street in Sunnyside.

Dad Michael, a sheet metal worker, secured a job as a shop teacher in a vocational high school, enabling them to buy a home at 25-35 89 St. in East Elmhurst.

Richard joined the Marine Corps in 1957 and served two years. Upon his discharge he was taught by Lee Strasberg to become an actor. While in training for his craft he worked as a carpet installer. He changed his name to Burt Young and married Gloria DeLouise on May 20, 1961. They had a daughter, Anne, in 1969. His acting career started to kick in around 1970. He appeared in 160 films and TV shows over his career but is best remembered for his role as Paulie Pennino in “Rocky” and its five sequels.

Some sources say his real name was Gerald DeLuise. Regardless of that, he just passed away at age 83 in Los Angeles, on Oct. 8, and is missed by his adoring fans. Q