Tony Butala, the Croatian-American singer who co-founded the Grammy-nominated vocal group The Lettermen and helped define American pop music in the 1960s, died on November 1 in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. He was 87.
His death was confirmed by the group’s representatives, who paid tribute to a performer whose career spanned more than six decades.
Born in Sharon, Pennsylvania, in 1938, Butala grew up in a family of Croatian heritage. He began singing professionally at just seven years old and appeared on Pittsburgh’s KDKA Radio the following year.
As a child, he moved to California and joined the Mitchell Boys Choir. His early Hollywood work included appearances in films such as White Christmas, Peter Pan, and War of the Worlds.
However, his greatest success was still ahead.
The Voice Behind The Lettermen’s Biggest Hits
In the late 1950s, Butala joined Jim Pike and Bob Engemann to establish The Lettermen, a vocal trio known for its distinctive three-part harmonies.
The group achieved its breakthrough in 1961 with a recording of The Way You Look Tonight, which reached No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination.
Other hits followed, including When I Fall in Love and Goin’ Out of My Head/Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.
Over the following decade, The Lettermen placed 20 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned four Grammy nominations.
Their romantic sound attracted audiences across the United States and internationally. Meanwhile, Butala remained closely involved in the group’s development as its lineup changed over the years.
After decades of touring, he retired from performing in 2019.
In February 2020, The Lettermen received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing their lasting contribution to American music.
Proud of His Croatian Heritage
Although Butala built his career in the United States, he maintained strong connections with the Croatian-American community.
The National Federation of Croatian Americans Cultural Foundation remembered him as a dedicated supporter of Croatian causes and cultural initiatives.
According to the organization, Butala had been involved with the Croatian-American community since 1992.
He also helped organize Croatian wine-tasting events for members of the Congressional Croatian Caucus and Congressional Wine Caucus, bringing Croatian culture and traditions into Washington’s political and social circles.
In 2016, the federation presented him with its Lifetime Achievement Award at the Croatian Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Butala also shared a friendship with the late Croatian-American winemaker Miljenko “Mike” Grgich, reflecting their mutual interest in winemaking and California’s Napa Valley.
His contributions extended beyond the stage, demonstrating how prominent Americans of Croatian descent have helped preserve their heritage while building successful careers.
Following his death, The Lettermen described him as a man who found his greatest joy in entertaining audiences.
The group continues to perform with a new lineup, preserving the musical tradition Butala helped establish.
According to the official announcement, there will be no public viewing. Memorial celebrations are planned in Wisconsin and California, with details to be announced.
For the Croatian-American community, Tony Butala leaves behind two important legacies: a remarkable place in American popular music and decades of dedication to his ancestral heritage.
