These days Gary Lewis, founder of the eponymous group famous for the 1960s hit "This Diamond Ring," is making his home in Rochester, N.Y., with his wife Donna. And he's still touring with his group.

Gary Lewis & the Playboys churned out more hits in 1966 and 1967. The only thing that seemingly could stop the group’s momentum was if Lewis, who was of prime draft age, ended up being sent to ...