The Journey of Lee Van Cleef: From Accountant to Hollywood Icon
Lee Van Cleef, whose real name was Clarence Leroy Van Cleef Jr., was born on January 9, 1925, in Somerville, New Jersey. His parents, Marion Lavinia (Van Fleet) and Clarence Leroy Van Cleef Sr., were of Dutch ancestry. You might be surprised to hear that Lee didn’t start his career in the world of acting. He initially worked as an accountant, a far cry from the gritty, larger-than-life characters he would later portray on the big screen. But life had other plans for him. During World War II, Lee served in the U.S. Navy aboard minesweepers and sub-chasers. It was after the war that he decided to pursue a career in acting, starting his journey in 1950.
Love and Marriage: The Women in Lee's Life
Lee Van Cleef’s personal life was just as intriguing as his on-screen persona. Over the years, he was married three times, each relationship leaving its mark on his life. His first marriage was to Patsy Ruth Kahle, a high school sweetheart, in 1943. They were together for 15 years and had three children: Alan, Deborah, and David. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1958.
Not long after, in 1960, Lee found himself walking down the aisle again, this time with Joan Marjorie Drane. Their marriage lasted for 14 years until they parted ways in 1974. During this time, they welcomed a daughter named Denise Van Cleef into their lives. But it was his third and final marriage that seemed to bring him the most happiness. On July 13, 1976, Lee married Barbara Havelone, an actress and pianist. This union would last until his passing in 1989. Together, they shared a deep bond, and Barbara remained a constant source of support and love for Lee during his final years.
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Barbara Havelone: The Woman Who Stood by Lee's Side
Barbara Havelone, Lee’s third wife, was more than just a partner; she was a kindred spirit. A talented actress and pianist in her own right, Barbara had already made a name for herself in the film industry before meeting Lee. The two first crossed paths while working on the set of the film "El Sabor de la Venganza" (The Taste of Revenge) in Italy in 1968. Their professional relationship soon blossomed into something more profound, leading to their marriage in 1976. Barbara was not only Lee’s confidante but also his biggest supporter, standing by him as he battled health issues in the late '70s and '80s, including heart disease and the installation of an artificial cardiac pacemaker.
A Career in Film: From Villains to Legends
Lee Van Cleef’s acting career spanned several decades and included some of the most iconic roles in cinematic history. He became synonymous with the role of the villain, often playing morally ambiguous characters in Westerns and action films. One of his most memorable performances was in "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance," where he portrayed the ruthless Tom Doniphon. His portrayal of Jonathan Corbett in "The Big Gundown" (1967) also left a lasting impression on audiences. Lee’s work in the "Spaghetti Western" genre, alongside directors like Sergio Leone, cemented his legacy as one of the greats. He even appeared in the 1984 cult classic "Escape from New York," starring Kurt Russell, proving that his talent transcended genres.
Final Days and Legacy
Lee Van Cleef passed away on December 16, 1989, in Oxnard, California, at the age of 64. He left behind a rich legacy, not just in the films he starred in but also in the lives he touched. Barbara Havelone, his beloved wife, continued to honor his memory long after his death. Today, Lee is remembered as one of the great movie villains, a man who could make even the most despicable characters compelling and human. His gravestone at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Hollywood Hills bears the inscription "Best of the Bad," a fitting tribute to a man who defined the art of playing the antihero.
Lee’s life was filled with ups and downs, but through it all, he remained a dedicated actor and a loving partner. Whether you’re a fan of his films or simply curious about the man behind the screen, Lee Van Cleef’s story is one worth exploring. So, take a moment to reflect on the life of this incredible actor and the woman who stood by him through it all, Barbara Havelone.
