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Country singer Hal Ketchum dies from dementia at 67

Country singer Hal Ketchum has died from dementia at the age of 67.

The Small Town Saturday Night singer’s wife, Andrea, confirmed the sad news in a heartfelt Facebook post on Wednesday.

Hal Ketchum poses for a photo wearing a Western-inspired shirt and black jeans at Farm Aid in Dallas, Texas, March 14, 1992.
Hal Ketchum (pictured at Farm Aid in Dallas, Texas on March 14, 1992) has passed away following complications from dementia. Photo: Getty Images.

“With great sadness and grief we announce that Hal passed away peacefully last night at home due to complications of dementia,” she wrote in a statement.

“May his music live on forever in your hearts and bring you peace,” she added.

Andrea announced in April 2019 that Hal would be stepping back from his music career for health reasons.

“I know everyone is wondering why there are no future tour dates, and speculations as to the reason. Our family would like to share the cause for this,” she said at the time.

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Hal Ketchum wears a black and red plaid shirt while performing a special live show at the SiriusXM Studios on November 12, 2014 in Austin, Texas.
Hal Ketchum performed a special live show at the SiriusXM Studios on November 12, 2014 in Austin, Texas. Photo: Getty Images.

“Unfortunately, Hal is suffering from Alzheimer's/dementia. He has been battling this for some time now, but because of his love for his fans, he continued performing as long as it was possible,” she added.

In April 1998 when he was 35, Hal was diagnosed with a neurological disorder that affects the spinal column, acute transverse myelitis. The condition caused temporary paralysis of his left side and forced him to relearn basic tasks such as walking and playing the guitar.

Born in Greenwich, New York, on April 9, 1953, Hal’s country music career spanned over three decades and 11 studio albums. His 1991 album Past the Point of Rescue was his most successful and was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America.

Fellow country star LeAnn Rimes shared her condolences on Twitter, writing: “So sad to hear that Hal Ketchum has gone to live amongst the angels. We will miss you down here, Hal! He was such a talent and a dear soul.”

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