Tom Netherton Death & Obituary: The world of music and entertainment is remembering Thomas H. Netherton Jr., best known for his years as a beloved singer on The Lawrence Welk Show. Tom passed away on January 7, 2018, at the age of 70 at the VA Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee, after complications from the flu that developed into pneumonia. His passing left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans.
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Early Life and Military Service
Tom Netherton was born on January 11, 1947, in Munich, Germany, to Major Thomas H. Netherton, Sr., and Lillian Christensen Netherton. His early life was shaped by his father’s military career, and the family eventually settled in Bloomington, Minnesota, following his father’s retirement from the army.
During the Vietnam War, Tom followed in his father’s footsteps and enlisted in the United States Army. He began his military career by completing Basic Training at Fort Bliss, Texas, where he was recognized as the Excellent Trainee of the Cycle and received the prestigious Spirit of Honor Medal for exceptional leadership. Tom then went on to complete Advanced Infantry Training and was accepted into Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Benning, Georgia. After a rigorous 12-week program, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and subsequently served as Commander of the 1542 Infantry Unit in Panama, where he rose to the rank of 1st Lieutenant.
Transition to Music and Rise to Fame
During his time in Panama, Tom frequently sang for his fellow troops, performances that were broadcasted on the Army’s non-military radio network, Voice of America. His singing talents, coupled with his passion for music, ultimately led him to pursue a professional career in the entertainment industry after his honorable discharge from the Army.
Tom’s big break came when he auditioned for The Lawrence Welk Show. Impressed by his rich baritone voice and charismatic presence, Welk invited Tom to join the show, where he became a mainstay and fan favorite. His appearances on the show, spanning several years, showcased his exceptional vocal abilities and won him a loyal following that continues to remember him fondly.
A Lasting Impact in Christian Music
Beyond The Lawrence Welk Show, Tom Netherton had a successful career in the Christian music industry. He released 13 albums and authored an autobiography titled In the Morning of My Life. His deep and resonant voice, combined with his passion for uplifting and inspirational music, made him a cherished figure within the Christian community.
Throughout his career, Tom’s musical contributions and positive messages reached audiences far and wide, resonating deeply with those who sought solace and inspiration through his music.
Legacy and Personal Remembrances
Tom Netherton is survived by his mother, Lillian Netherton; his brother, Brad (Paula) Netherton; and his sisters, Julie (Bruce) Kobielush and Wendy Siebold. Those who knew Tom remember his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and the warmth and generosity he extended to everyone around him. He was not only a gifted entertainer but also a kind-hearted individual whose presence brightened the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know him personally.
Tom’s passing is a great loss, but his legacy endures through his music, his influence on the world of entertainment, and the countless lives he touched with his voice and spirit. He will always be remembered as a remarkable performer, a dedicated veteran, and a beloved family member.
Rest in peace, Tom Netherton. Your voice and legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.