Projectile's new lead singer passes away

Dr. Tom Arand, the new lead singer for a band of musicians in the veterinary industry, died of a heart attack Jan. 19. Dr. Arand, owner of The Animal Care Clinic of Round Rock, Texas, beat out two other veterinarians in an American Idol-style showdown for the spot as frontman for the band Projectile last year at CVC Central in Kansas City, Mo. He was slated to debut in his new role April 20 at CVC East in Baltimore.

Drummer Dr. Fred Metzger says the show will be instead a tribute to the charismatic singer.

"We only knew Tom for a short time, but we could see he was passionate about everything he did," Metzger says. "I remember how much fun he had singing with us at CVC Central, and he brought the house down. We're dedicating our performance at CVC East to Tom, and I know he'll be watching."

"Tom was one of the most helpful, nicest, kindest, good-natured fellows on the planet," wrote Dr. Arand's widow, Kim DeBok, in his obituary. "He loved a good joke and a witty comeback, and always had an infectious smile as well as a booming laugh that was contagious."

Dr. Arand graduated from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1983, following in the footsteps of his father. He married his wife that same year and moved to Georgetown, Texas, and opened his clinic in Round Rock. A member of the Rotary Club and a frequent volunteer for the local Humane Society, Dr. Arand enjoyed serving his community.

Dr. Arand is survived by his wife, his daughter, April, his mother, Paula, as well as two sisters, his mother- and sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.

A "celebration of life," instead of a funeral, for Dr. Arand will take place Feb. 16 in Round Rock. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Humane Society of Williamson County or Round Rock Animal Control.

For photos of Dr. Arand's winning appearance, click on photos nine and ten in this online slideshow.