Tom Dreesen Dead: Stand-Up Comedian, Frank Sinatra Opener Was 86

Tom Dreesen, a prolific stand-up comedian known for touring with Frank Sinatra and performing in “Spaceballs” and the TV movie “Columbo: Murder in Malibu,” died Wednesday. He was 86.

The news of Dreesen’s death was shared by his family on his official Facebook page. “He wanted you all to know how much joy you brought him through the years. He said to tell you that he loved you all. May he rest in peace,” the post said, although no more further details were given.

Dreesen’s death comes a week after his final TV appearance on “Comics Unleashed With Bryon Allen,” which aired on CBS. It was his fourth stint on the show since it launched back in 2006. Dreesen served as a mentor figure to Byron Allen since 1975.

A stand-up comic of over 50 years who grew up outside of Chicago, Dreesen got his start performing with Tim Reid in the comedy duo Tim and Tom — the first biracial stand-up duo in the United States. Since launching his solo career in the mid-70s, Dreesen frequently appeared as a guest on David Letterman’s show and performed alongside Liza Minnelli, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Smokey Robinson. Notably, he toured the nation as Sinatra’s opening act for 13 years.

“Forrest Gump” actor Gary Sinise paid tribute to his longtime friend, posting on X: “He served as a Gary Sinise Foundation ambassador for the past 14 ere when I asked for his support. He loved our country and the men and women who serve and he loved supporting them through our foundation. Tom was hilarious, always could make us laugh, and such a good friend. I will miss him terribly. What a great long career he had in show business.”

Dreesen appeared in various TV shows, starting in 1976 with the second episode of “Good Heavens.” Credits include “Murder, She Wrote,” “WKRP in Cincinnati,” “The Facts of Life” and “Touched by an Angel.” He also made an appearance in the film “Man on the Moon.”