Career
A native of Algona, Iowa, he served in the United States Navy during World World War II after graduation from Algona High School. His entertainment career began when he worked for several bands such as Harold Loeffelmacher and his Six Fat Dutchmen polka band. He was discovered by Lawrence Welk in 1951.
During his tenure on The Lawrence Welk Show, in addition to playing the saxophone, Dale sang not just solos but also in duets, performed in comedy sketches, dances, and also played Santa Claus for many years on the Christmas shows.
Even after the show went into retirement in 1982, he continued to perform with his fellow Welk alumni. From 1990 to 1996, he co-owned and operated the Rainbow Music Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee with fellow Welk star Ava Barber.
After making their home in Sparks, Nevada for several years, the Dales moved back to his Iowa hometown of Algona in 2006. Dick Dale died in Algona, Iowa on December 26, 2014, aged 88.
