Historical Note: John Kenneth Neill was born on June 14, 1914 in Mound City, Missouri. His family later relocated to Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He was hired as an arranger by Lawrence Welk while performing as a pianist in an Omaha nightclub, his biographies credit him with a role in the crafting of Welk's theme song, "Bubbles in the Wine" Neill worked for Welk from 1937 to 1940, and served as a sergeant in the 12th Armored Division of the U.S. Army during the Second World War, earning the Bronze Star. After the war, Neill formed his own band, residing in Denver and performing around Colorado. He also performed extensively as an organist in a duo with his wife, Lois Mills Neill. In later years, he relocated to Denton, Texas, where he died on January 8, 2004.

Sources:

John Kenneth Neill Sr., in the U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007, via Ancestry.com, viewed November 2, 2020.

John K Neill Sr in the U.S. Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 1 via Ancestry.com, viewed November 2, 2020.

John Kenneth Neill in the U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947, via Ancestry.com, viewed November 2, 2020.

Ancestry sources above confirm places of residence mentioned in biographical/historical note.

"Johnny Neill, Pianist And Arranger (1937-1940)," via Welkshow.com, viewed November 2, 2020. https://www.welkshow.com/neill.html

Records or Manuscript Collections Created by Neill, John K. (John Kenneth), 1914-