Dick Dale, Singer (1951 - 1982)

His successful recovery from a recent stroke

Dick Dale was a popular baritone singer on the Lawrence Welk Show from 1951 to 1982. Dale was born on September 14, 1926 in Algona, Iowa.  He began playing the saxophone in seventh grade and joined Lynn Kerns' band in high school.  He joined the Navy in 1944 and served in World War II.  After the war, he joined Cliff Keyes Orchestra, returned to the Lynn Kerns' band and then joined Amby Meyer's Band.  He also played with Al Menke's band and the Six Fat Dutchman.

Lawrence Welk heard Dale sing with the Six Fat Dutchman during a radio show and asked him to join his orchestra. Dale sang and played saxophone with the Lawrence Welk Orchestra from 1951 and continued on the Lawrence Welk TV Show until 1982.  Dick also danced, did comedy pieces and was part of the production staff for the show.  Many will remember him for his role as Santa Claus every year during the annual Welk Christmas Show.  Following the Show, Dick joined the Rainbow Music Theater in Tennessee for five years.

Dick has been married to his wife, Marguerite, since 1949!  Together, they have three sons, Rick, Danny and David, and a daughter, Deedee. In 2012, Dale suffered a stroke but is recovering well.