Sad news: A man whom I cared about for decades is near death tonight:

If you are from South Florida, chances are you know him too. If the name Skipper Chuck means anything to you, please read on for the update.

He was a TV announcer who became a big star in Dade and Broward County. He retired this year at age 80, but apparently is near death in a hospice in Boca Raton, Florida, tonight. The last contact I had with him was in 1987, but this news has come like a bolt out of the blue. I had hoped he would retire and get to enjoy the fruits of his labors. But, sadly, that was not to be. His wife, also 80 years old, is one of few visitors he has during these last days of his life. (He was unable to have children due to contracting malaria in the South Pacific during World War II.) here's the link:

http://origin.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/news/local/states/florida/counties/broward_county/13477348.htm

Here he is, in younger days, with me. I was his co-host from 1957-58 at WTVJ, Miami, Florida. Peace, love and happiness and hope you traverse the end game of life without pain. RIP, Skipper...

Peace to him, and also to you. :hug:

that. I'm packing tonight to go and see my son in Salt Lake City, Utah.

I have a heavy heart this evening. It looks like my old friend won't see the New Year.

In peace,

Radio_Lady

Hug.

to think that he is ending up this way.

...shows a man so full of life. And good lookin too, I might add.

I hope he had a happy life.

I really have no idea how happy he was with his life. It's a very long story and the truth is that I was quite involved with him for many years after my college days, through letters, tapes and phone calls. In my mind, he sort of became a replacement father or older brother (he was fourteen years older than I am). He soothed me and encouraged me during difficult times.

I would have done things much differently if I had had the view I have now.

In peace,

Radio_Lady

:hug:

we're leaving on a trip on Thursday and I have to be "UP-UP-UP" -- not lost in my own thoughts.

:hug:

:hug: I hope that his passing is peaceful, and that you are able to enjoy the time on your trip with those you love :hug:

:cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry:

:cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry:

I haven't been the same since. I won't be able to check my email over the next few days. I expect CZ will be gone by the New Year.

RIP, CDZ Born February 4, 1925 to -----

:hug:

He must be a very special person to be so loved. :hug:

I will miss thinking of him.

I'm going down to Florida next October for my 50th High School reunion. It will be the first time I am there and he isn't. Very strange -- very sad.

God speed and keep you, Skipper Chuck.

I was on in 1972 or 3 representing my school, Silver Bluff Elementary. :loveya:

Such a beautiful name! I went to Biscayne Elementary, William Jennings Bryan Elementary, and then North Miami High School and the University of Miami!

Thanks for the candle of remembrance.

In peace,

Radio_Lady

(Coral Gables) High.

I went there 25 years after my dad who was in their 2nd graduating class along with Janet Reno.

:hug:

In peace, and as the Skipper used to say, "Bye-bye for a while, and keep a smile!"

Radio_Lady

Whenever a person loses a mentor, I think it's just very difficult.

When my father was absent or off with his occupations, this man was there in his stead. What can I say? We started our program the first Monday in January, 1957 (I can't remember the exact date.)

I can't believe it's over -- just such a shock.

In peace,

Radio_Lady

That's all any of us can ask for, in the end...

Redstone

August 2, 1945 to
August 2, 2005

have some expectation of 60 years.

Redstone

They really are a treasure that should be preserved. I am so sorry to hear about the gentleman you worked with early in your career, and remembrances of his best days on the radio/TV circuit will keep his spirit alive, remember the days that you two made radio & TV history.

I think there are some plans to put some of the shows on DVD, but I'm not sure about that. I just found out about his illness today, and I'm still trying to accept it all.

In peace,

Radio_Lady

Keep his memory alive within you, and think of the good times.

I've never had the pleasure of seeing him on tv, but anyone who is a friend of a great DUer is someone the world will miss.