R.I.P.: Wisconsin Broadcaster Dick Dudley

Dick Dudley

Richard “Dick” Dudley, who gave millions of dollars to Wausau institutions and projects and was one of Wausau’s best-known philanthropists, has died.

Dudley, whose reputation as a tough-talking, risk-taking businessman with a unique desire to invest in the community’s development earned him the nickname “Mr. Wausau,” died Tuesday at his home of natural causes.

He was 89, according to stevenspointjournal.com.

Dudley pursued a long, storied career in broadcasting, first as a salesman at WSAU radio in 1947, where he became general manager in 1951. In 1954, he became assistant general manager and sales manager of what is now WSAW-TV, and became president of the TV station in 1959.

In 1989, Dudley, together with his brother, Bob, formed Dudley Communications Corp. and Dudley Broadcasting Management to own and operate television stations in three states; the company was sold to The Tribune Co. of Chicago in 1998.

Dick Dudley was inducted into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 1989. His drive and ability in the field of broadcasting was recognized through his many awards from the National Association of Broadcasters, where he served as a director for many years and was awarded the Grover C. Cobb Memorial Award in recognition of his contributions to broadcasting and government.

“The broadcasting community is deeply saddened by Dick’s death,” said Wisconsin Broadcasters Association President and CEO Michelle Vetterkind. “He was a pioneer for our community who leaves behind a great legacy.”

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