It is with great sadness that we report Tom King, an alumnus, Blue Stars Hall of Fame member, former Executive Director and board member, long-time volunteer, and friend to all, has passed away. Tom was a long-time supporter and champion of the organization, and his fingerprints will forever be on our legacy.
“I first met Tom as a parent when his son marched with me in the 1993 Blue Stars,” said Brad Furlano. “But I really got to know him after I aged out when I was a staff member and he was on the board of directors and then as the Executive Director. Tom’s time leading the corps helped to set the stage for our growth and return to World Class in the future.”
We will remember Tom for his countless hours of dedication to the Blue Stars as well as his tireless commitment to youth both in and out of the drum corps activity. His legacy leaves a permanent imprint on the corps with Tom having served as a marching member, Executive Director, volunteer and 2018 Blue Stars Hall of Fame inductee.
Tom is survived and missed by his loving wife, Mary; children Brian (Jody) King of Slinger, WI and Jennifer (Brian) Larsen of La Crosse, WI; six adoring grandchildren: Kira King, Carly King, Marie King, Matthew King, Katie King, and Josie Larsen; two brothers: Jerry (Vickie) King and Dan (Diane) King; and a sister Jane Pretasky as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Our thoughts are with Tom’s family and friends during this difficult time.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 3, 2023 at St. Kilian Catholic Church ( 264 W State St, Hartford, WI 53027). Tom’s family will greet friends and relatives at the church for a visitation at 10:00 a.m. until the start of Mass at 11:00 a.m.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 5, 2023 in the La Crosse area at the La Crescent Area Event, Center South Ballroom (595 Veterans Parkway, La Crescent, MN 55948), and a private inurnment will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, it is the family’s wish that donations be made in Tom’s name to the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps, PO Box 2523, La Crosse, WI 54602 or online at the Donations Page.
