In Memory of Tom Diehl: A Pillar of Wisconsin Dells

Though I never had the privilege of meeting Tom Diehl personally, I understand the profound impact he had on the Wisconsin Dells community and the broader region. In the heart of Wisconsin, where the natural beauty of the Dells meets the vibrant pulse of tourism, one name stands out for its indelible mark on the region’s landscape: Tom Diehl. For decades, Tom not only led the entertainment industry with his stewardship of the iconic Tommy Bartlett Show but also played a pivotal role in shaping the economic and cultural fabric of Wisconsin Dells.

Tom Diehl passed away on August 29th after a prolonged illness, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to enrich Wisconsin for generations to come. He was a husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, and his passing will be deeply mourned by all who knew and loved him.

A Legacy of Entertainment

Tom Diehl’s journey in Wisconsin Dells began in 1967 when he joined the Tommy Bartlett organization, eventually becoming its president in 1978. Under his leadership, the Tommy Bartlett Show became synonymous with family entertainment in the region. Yet, Tom’s influence extended far beyond the stage lights and water skis. His vision for the area included not just entertainment but also community development and infrastructure, ensuring that Wisconsin Dells remained a thriving destination for visitors from all over the world.

Community Leadership and Economic Impact

Tom’s commitment to Wisconsin Dells went beyond the entertainment realm. His service on the Village of Lake Delton board since 1981 underscores his dedication to local governance. Perhaps one of his most significant contributions was during the catastrophic breach of Lake Delton in 2008. The lake, vital to the local economy, was drained due to severe storms. Tom’s leadership during the restoration efforts was crucial, reflecting his deep-rooted commitment to the community’s welfare and resilience.

Awards and Recognition

In 2006, the state of Wisconsin recognized Tom Diehl’s contributions with a Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his vision and leadership in advancing tourism. This accolade was not just a testament to his business acumen but also to his role in community service and economic development. His receipt of the “Tommy” Ambassador Award further highlighted his impact on water skiing, showcasing his influence across multiple domains. Tom was honored many times by the organizations and causes to which he contributed and for which he often served as a leader.

The End of an Era

The decision to close the Tommy Bartlett Show in 2020, due to financial pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic, marked a poignant moment in Tom Diehl’s career. This closure, while economically driven, also symbolized the end of an era for one of Wisconsin Dells’ most iconic attractions. Yet, Tom’s legacy in fostering tourism and community spirit in the Dells remains undiminished. His commitment to the Dells and all things Wisconsin tourism was unrivaled, continuing right up to his final days.

Infrastructure and Tourism

Tom Diehl’s advocacy for infrastructure improvements has left a lasting impact on the physical landscape and economic prospects not only of Wisconsin Dells but of Central Wisconsin and indeed the entire state. He understood the importance of connecting people physically and was a tireless advocate for state highway and interstate improvements. But he never forgot his home. Projects like the Eddy Street reconstruction and improvements to Jenkins Park illustrate his foresight in recognizing that tourism thrives on accessible, appealing infrastructure. His efforts have not only beautified the area but also made it more accessible and enjoyable for visitors, thereby boosting local economies.

Looking Forward

As Wisconsin’s tourism industry and overall economy continue to evolve, Tom Diehl’s contributions serve as a blueprint for sustainable development. His approach, blending commerce with community welfare, infrastructure development, and long-term economic strategy, offers lessons for everyone interested in the future prosperity of Wisconsin. Tom Diehl’s story is one of vision, determination, and community spirit. From his early days with Tommy Bartlett to his role in local governance and economic development, Tom shaped Wisconsin Dells into a premier destination that not only entertains but also thrives economically and culturally.

His legacy is a reminder of what leadership in tourism can achieve when combined with a deep commitment to community, solid Wisconsin values, and a Midwest work ethic that was second to none. As Wisconsin Dells looks to the future, it does so standing on the shoulders of giants like Tom Diehl, whose contributions will echo through the bluffs and canyons for generations to come.

Tom Diehl will be missed, but his legacy lives on. For every position he held, there are countless colleagues impacted, and thousands of lives touched. In the coming days, there will surely be tens of thousands of stories shared. Tom Diehl’s impact on Wisconsin cannot be overstated.

Positions Held:

- Chair, Governor’s Council on Tourism (1986 – 1999)

- President, Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau (1982 – 1997)

- Taliesin Preservation Commission (1994)

- Governor Thompson’s Blue Ribbon Task Force on Gaming (1991)

- Governor Thompson’s Minimum Wage Advisory Task Force (1991)

- Governor Thompson’s Clean Water Task Force (1987)

- Lt. Governor Flynn’s Task Force on Funding for Wisconsin Tourism Promotion (1985)

- Director, Wisconsin Dells United Way (1984 – 1998)

- Governor Thompson’s Task Force on the Stewardship Program

- Governor Earl’s Task Force on Circus World Museum

- Midwest Coordinator, Cornell University’s Capital Campaign

- President, Wisconsin DRIVE Coalition

- Member, Leadership Committee for Restoration of Lake Delton (2008 – 2009)

- Lake Delton Village Board (1981 – 1991; 2001 – 2024)

- Director, H.H. Bennett Foundation (1998 – 2024)

- Director, Wisconsin Dells Visitor and Convention Bureau (1974 – 2024)

- Marketing Committee Chair, Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau (1994; 1997 – 2024)

- Director, Wisconsin Tourism Federation (1985 – 2024)

- Director, Bank of Wisconsin Dells (1990 – 2024)

- President/Founder, Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions (1985 – 1989; 2002 – 2024)

- Director, Wisconsin Dells Education Foundation (2011 – 2024)

- Chair, Downtown Tourism Development Committee (2016 – 2024)

- Member, Tourism Economic Development Committee (2016 – 2024)

Information is taken from Dairyland Sentinal.