Wayne Osmond, a cherished member of the renowned family musical group The Osmonds, has sadly passed away at the age of 73. He died on Wednesday at the University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake City due to complications from a recent stroke, as reported by his daughter Amy Cook.

The Osmonds, known for their catchy pop hits in the 1970s, played an instrumental role in shaping the careers of his more famous siblings, Donny and Marie. With memorable tracks like “One Bad Apple,” which soared to No. 1 on the charts, and “Yo-Yo,” the group drew significant comparisons to the iconic Jackson 5. Their music, characterized by electric harmonies and infectious beats, propelled them to unprecedented fame, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

In a startling moment of hysteria typical of the era, The Osmonds’ arrival at Heathrow Airport in 1972 attracted such a frenzied crowd that a New York Times reporter likened the scene to that of The Beatles' explosive popularity. Wayne Osmond, while not always the forefront vocalist, contributed a rich baritone that underscored many of their performances. He was a talented multi-instrumentalist known for playing lead guitar and woodwinds while also writing impactful songs, including the heartfelt 1972 piece “And You Love Me,” dedicated to his wife, Kathlyn White, a former Miss Utah whom he married in 1974.

Born Melvin Wayne Osmond on August 28, 1951, in Ogden, Utah, Wayne was raised in a devout Mormon family. The Osmond household, filled with love for music, produced nine children, all encouraged to pursue their artistic passions. Wayne began performing at just six years old and was renowned for his ability to master nearly 18 different musical instruments, though his passion and proficiency for the guitar stood out prominently.

In the late 1950s, he formed a barbershop quartet with his brothers — Alan, Merrill, and Jay — while performing at local venues to support charitable mission work. Their big break came when the brother’s talent was discovered by the father of famous crooner Andy Williams at Disneyland. This encounter led to a spot on “The Andy Williams Show,” where they debuted on December 2, 1962, capturing the hearts of audiences and launching their career under the name The Osmonds.

Their showmanship, including intricate choreography inspired by soul groups, garnered a fervent fanbase. Wayne faced personal challenges, including the discovery of a brain tumor that wasn’t diagnosed until he reached his 40s, and a subsequent battle with cancer. In 2012, he suffered a stroke that impeded his ability to play guitar, but it did not deter his spirit.

For the last decade, Wayne embraced simpler pleasures like fly fishing and cherished time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Kathlyn, their five children, and 20 grandchildren, as well as his eight siblings: Virl, Tom, Alan, Merrill, Jay, Donny, Marie, and Jimmy.

Wayne Osmond often spoke about the importance of his faith, stating, “We’re Latter-day Saints, and we have a very high moral and ethical code that we live by.” His legacy not only resonates through his music but also through the values he shared with his family and community.

Fans and family alike remember Wayne Osmond as more than just a talented musician; they celebrate a kind-hearted man whose legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.