Norma Zimmer was a talented and beloved singer who charmed millions of viewers as the Champagne Lady on The Lawrence Welk Show for 22 years. She also had a successful career as a studio singer, working with some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Bing Crosby. But what was the cause of her death, and how did she live her life? Here is a brief overview of her biography, achievements, and legacy.
Early Years and Career
Norma Zimmer was born on July 13, 1923, in Larson, Idaho, as Norma Larsen. She grew up in Seattle, Washington, where her father was a violin teacher. She had a passion for music from an early age, but her father told her that her hands were too small to play the violin. Instead, she focused on vocal studies and sang in a church choir.
When she was 18, she moved to Los Angeles, California, to pursue a career as a singer. She joined several vocal groups, including the Norman Luboff Choir and the Ken Darby Singers. She also performed as a soloist on various radio shows, such as Sparkle Time and Standard School.
She made her film debut in 1950, singing a small part in the Bing Crosby movie Mr. Music. She also provided the voice of the White Rose in the Disney animated film Alice in Wonderland in 1951. She appeared on many popular TV variety shows in the 1950s, such as The Jack Benny Program and I Love Lucy.
She married Randy Zimmer, a builder and property developer, in 1944. They had two sons, Mark and Ron, and were married for 64 years until Randy’s death in 2008.
The Lawrence Welk Show
In 1959, Norma Zimmer became the Champagne Lady on The Lawrence Welk Show, a musical variety show that featured Welk’s orchestra and singers performing popular songs and dance tunes. The Champagne Lady was the title given to Welk’s lead female singer, who sang solos, duets, and waltzed with Welk at the end of each show.
Zimmer was not the first Champagne Lady on the show. She replaced Alice Lon, who left the show due to disagreements with Welk over salary and scheduling. Zimmer initially agreed to stay on the show until Welk found another singer, but he was so impressed by her talent and personality that he kept asking her to come back week after week. That went on for 22 years, until the show ended in 1982.
Zimmer became one of the most popular and beloved performers on the show, earning the admiration and respect of both Welk and his fans. She sang a variety of songs, ranging from classical to country to gospel. She also showcased her versatility by playing different instruments, such as the accordion, the harp, and the piano.
She continued to appear on the show’s public TV specials that aired after the show’s cancellation. She also took part in a tribute to Welk and his show held at the Paley Center for Media in Beverly Hills in 2011.
Later Years and Death
After leaving The Lawrence Welk Show, Zimmer devoted more time to her family and her faith. She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and performed at many church events. She also painted as a hobby and created more than 100 paintings, mostly portraits.
She also remained involved in business matters with her husband. They owned a ski lodge at Kratka Ridge and a mobile home park with more than 100 spaces.
On May 10, 2011, Zimmer died peacefully at her home in Brea, California, at the age of 87. The exact cause of her death was not disclosed publicly, but according to TODAY, her son Larry said that she had been living an active life in recent years.
She was survived by her two sons and their families. Her funeral services were held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Brea.
Legacy
Norma Zimmer left behind a legacy of music, joy, and grace that touched many people’s lives. She was remembered as a gracious, likable, and talented singer who brought happiness to millions of viewers with her beautiful voice and charming smile.
She was also praised for her professionalism, loyalty, and humility by her colleagues and friends. Lawrence Welk once said that she was “the best thing that ever happened” to his show. Her fellow singers on the show expressed their love and respect for her after her death.
She received several awards and honors for her contributions to music and entertainment. In 1994, she was inducted into the National Broadcasters Hall of Fame. In 2000, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters. In 2005, she was honored by the Lawrence Welk Musical Family with a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.
Norma Zimmer was a remarkable woman who lived a full and rich life. She was a singer, a wife, a mother, a painter, a businesswoman, and a faithful member of her church. She was the Champagne Lady who sparkled with elegance and charm. She was Norma Zimmer, and she will be missed.
