In his over 60-year career since leaving Harvey, Illinois, comedian Tom Dreesen made a significant mark in show business. He appeared over 500 times on television, including 61 appearances on ‘The Tonight Show’. Dreesen also opened for famed performers like Smokey Robinson, Tony Orlando, Gladys Knight, Liza Minnelli, Sammy Davis Jr., and Frank Sinatra. Notably, he served as Sinatra’s opening act for 13 years, acted as the master of ceremonies at Sinatra’s 1998 wake, and was a pallbearer at his funeral.
Reflecting on Dreesen’s contributions, late-night host David Letterman once praised him, saying, ‘He is one of my oldest friends and a born storyteller. And he’s got such a good heart.’ This heart, however, stopped on a Wednesday morning when Dreesen died of cancer in a California hospital at 86.
Dreesen experienced a challenging childhood, born on September 11, 1939, as the third of eight children in a family struggling with alcoholism. Despite their difficulties, his mother eventually overcame her drinking, while his father did not. Growing up in poverty, Dreesen recounted that his family sometimes lacked basic necessities. They lived without a shower or hot water, and the children often slept in crowded conditions.
To help his family, Dreesen took odd jobs like caddying and shoe-shining. He did not graduate from high school but found an escape by joining the Navy, serving for four years. During this time, he met his future wife, Maryellen Subock. Together, they had three children: Amy, Tom, and Jennifer.
Dreesen eventually formed a comedy act with fellow Jaycees member Tim Reid, pioneering one of the first interracial comedy duos, known as Tim & Tom, in 1969. Despite early struggles and splitting up in 1974, Dreesen persisted. He moved to Los Angeles, where he began performing at the Comedy Store and formed connections with other aspiring comedians like David Letterman, Jay Leno, Robin Williams, and others.
These relationships were crucial, as Dreesen helped others find work, guiding them through the early phases of their careers. Eventually, his big break came through an opportunity on ‘The Tonight Show,’ leading to more significant roles and a partnership with Frank Sinatra.
His experiences with Sinatra allowed him to mingle with luminaries like Gene Kelly and Dean Martin, establishing a reputation as both an entertainer and a generous humanitarian. Notoriously charitable, Dreesen performed for numerous benefits and remained an ardent supporter of causes. Divorced and living on Benefit Street in Sherman Oaks, he continued to carry the influences of his upbringing throughout his life.
Despite some health issues later in life, including a battle with COVID-19, Dreesen maintained an optimistic demeanor, contributing to the Gary Sinise Foundation for many years. The chairman of the Cubs, Tom Ricketts, expressed profound respect for Dreesen’s roots, stating, ‘No matter where life took him, Tom never forgot where he came from.’
Close friend and Steppenwolf ensemble member Gary Sinise acknowledged Dreesen’s passing while highlighting his charitable spirit and service as a U.S. Navy veteran. Larry Wert, a former TV and radio executive, noted that Dreesen remained true to his values, praising his love for storytelling and engagement with fans and family.
Dreesen shared a poignant story later in life about discovering at age 12 that his father was Frank Polizzi, an uncle by marriage. Revealing this secret years later, he recounted an emotional hospital visit where his father expressed regret about not acknowledging Dreesen publicly.
Plans for a memorial service are underway, commemorating the life of an iconic comedian who touched many both on and off the stage.