The passing of Thomas Harold Netherton Jr., best known for his tenure as a beloved singer on the Lawrence Welk Show, marked the end of an era for countless fans who cherished his smooth baritone voice and wholesome presence. Tom Netherton passed away on January 7, 2018, at the age of 70, at the VA Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee, due to complications from the flu, which tragically advanced to pneumonia. While his death brought deep sorrow to family, friends, and fans alike, it also served as a moment to celebrate the remarkable life of a man who dedicated himself to his country, his music, and his faith.
Born on January 11, 1947, in Munich, Germany, Tom Netherton’s early life was marked by travel and transition, as he grew up in a military family. His father, Major Thomas H. Netherton Sr., was stationed overseas, and young Tom spent the first few years of his life in Germany before his family eventually settled in Bloomington, Minnesota, following his father’s retirement from the U.S. Army. It was there, in Minnesota, that Tom’s musical journey began, though his path to stardom and spiritual calling would take many twists and turns before he became a household name on television screens across America.
Tom’s journey to fame was not straightforward. Before becoming a star, he first served his country as a soldier. Drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War, Tom entered the service with a heart full of duty and patriotism. He completed basic training at Fort Bliss, Texas, where his exemplary performance earned him the prestigious “Trainee of the Cycle” award, and his leadership skills garnered him the “Spirit of Honor” Medal. These accolades would be the first of many honors in his lifetime, marking him as a soldier of not only skill but also moral and ethical leadership.
Upon completing advanced infantry training, Tom’s commitment to excellence led him to Officer Candidate School at Ft. Benning, Georgia, where after 12 grueling weeks, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. He was soon transferred to Panama, where he served as the Commander of the 1542 Infantry Unit. Tom’s military service saw him rise to the rank of 1st Lieutenant, but what distinguished him during this time wasn’t only his leadership on the battlefield. While stationed in Panama, Tom began to sing for his fellow soldiers, and his powerful voice resonated with those who needed a sense of hope and comfort. These performances were broadcast on the Army’s non-military radio network, Voice of America, and provided a foreshadowing of the musical career that would soon change his life.
After completing his service and being honorably discharged from the Army, Tom felt the call to pursue his true passion—music. It wasn’t long before this passion would lead him to an unexpected opportunity. In the early 1970s, Tom auditioned for the Lawrence Welk Show, a television variety program that was known for its big band music, family-friendly entertainment, and weekly performances of patriotic and gospel songs. At the time, Lawrence Welk, the show’s famous bandleader, was looking for fresh, wholesome talent, and Tom’s commanding baritone voice and clean-cut image fit perfectly with the program’s brand. The audition was a success, and Tom was soon a featured vocalist on the show.
Tom’s presence on the Lawrence Welk Show from 1973 to 1982 endeared him to audiences across the country. His smooth, soothing voice and charismatic stage presence made him one of the most popular performers on the show, and he quickly developed a devoted fan base. His performances spanned a variety of musical genres, from love ballads to inspirational gospel songs, and his deep faith was often reflected in his musical choices. Fans were drawn not only to his vocal talents but also to his sincerity, humility, and unwavering commitment to his Christian values.
Throughout his career on the show, Tom Netherton became a role model for many, particularly young men and women who admired his clean lifestyle and spiritual integrity. At a time when much of pop culture was moving toward edgier and more provocative content, Tom remained steadfast in his commitment to wholesome entertainment, earning him the respect of viewers and his fellow performers alike.
Tom’s career wasn’t limited to the Lawrence Welk Show. He also enjoyed success as a recording artist, particularly within the Christian music industry. Over the course of his career, Tom released 13 albums, many of which focused on inspirational and gospel music. His albums resonated with audiences who appreciated his uplifting message and pure vocal talent. Songs like “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace” became staples of his performances, and his music continued to reach new fans long after his time on television.
In addition to his music, Tom also authored an autobiography titled In the Morning of My Life, which chronicled his personal journey, his rise to fame, and his deeply held Christian beliefs. The book gave readers a glimpse into the man behind the music, shedding light on his personal struggles, his faith, and his reflections on life, love, and purpose. For those who admired Tom from afar, the autobiography offered an intimate look at his character, his values, and the experiences that shaped him into the person they had come to know and love.
Tom’s life was not without its challenges, and like many public figures, he faced personal difficulties along the way. Despite these obstacles, he remained grounded in his faith and committed to using his talents for good. His connection to his audience was profound, and many of his fans regarded him not only as a singer but as an inspiration and a spiritual guide.
Tom’s influence extended far beyond his time on the Lawrence Welk Show. After his television career ended, he continued to perform at churches, charity events, and Christian conferences across the country. His voice and his message continued to resonate with people of all ages, and he remained an active presence in the Christian community until his health began to decline in later years.
In January 2018, just days before his 71st birthday, Tom Netherton passed away due to complications from the flu, which had developed into pneumonia. His death marked the end of a life that had touched so many, both through his music and his personal example. Though his passing brought great sadness to his family, friends, and fans, it also offered a moment to reflect on the legacy he left behind.
Tom is survived by his mother, Lillian Netherton; his brother, Brad Netherton, and his wife Paula; and his sisters, Julie Kobielush, and her husband Bruce, and Wendy Siebold. Those who knew Tom personally remember him not only for his remarkable talent but also for his wit, his infectious sense of humor, and his generosity. His warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered, and his memory continues to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
For the millions of fans who watched him on television or listened to his albums, Tom Netherton’s legacy lives on through his music. His voice, a gift that brought joy and comfort to so many, remains a source of solace and inspiration even after his passing. His commitment to faith, family, and service serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have when they live their life with purpose and integrity.
In the years since his death, tributes to Tom Netherton have poured in from fans, colleagues, and fellow performers. Many have shared their memories of his performances on the Lawrence Welk Show, while others have recounted personal encounters with him that left a lasting impression. Whether through his music, his autobiography, or his personal example, Tom’s influence continues to be felt by those who knew him and those who were touched by his art.
As we remember Tom Netherton, we are reminded of the power of music to heal, inspire, and bring people together. His life was a testament to the importance of following one’s passions, staying true to one’s values, and using one’s talents to make the world a better place. Though he is no longer with us, his voice, his spirit, and his legacy will endure for generations to come.
