Search by Name

Search by Name

"Dr." Don Rose

Don Rose Obituary

Bay Area radio legend Don Rose dies

By Brad Kava
Mercury News

``Dr.'' Don Rose, one of the top-rated morning radio disk jockeys in the Bay Area in the 1970s and 1980s at KFRC-AM, died in his sleep at his Concord home Wednesday, after months of fighting pneumonia. He was 70.

``If you didn't listen to Dr. Don, you were out of it,'' said Dave Sholen, who was his last program director at KFRC, before Rose left in 1988. ``You'd go to school and you wouldn't know what was going on. It was a must-listen.''

A master of one-liners and wild sound effects, Rose was a pioneer in radio on both coasts, after starting his career broadcasting in the fly-over zone in between.

He broadcast in the golden age of Top 40 radio.

``He was a guy who played songs like `Rock Around the Clock' when they were new,'' said Sholen. ``And he loved them all.''

He won Disk Jockey of the Year at Philadelphia's WFIL-AM and again at KFRC-AM.

``I would guess an entire generation of people who grew up wanting to be disc jockeys wanted to be Don Rose,'' said Mike Amatori, a producer and sound effects master at KGO-AM in San Francisco. ``He's been ripped off by everyone, and he was probably as big a talent in the '70s and '80s as Don Sherwood was in the '50s and '60s.''

According to the Web site, www.BroadcastLegends.com, Rose majored in accounting at the University of Nebraska, before landing radio jobs in Omaha, San Antonio, and Kearney, Nebraska -- getting fired from all of them.

At KMT-AM in Fort Dodge, Iowa, his luck changed. He met his wife of 45 years, Kae, and landed a morning show, where his one-liners drew a following (``Did you wake up grouchy, or is she still in bed?'').

That led him to bigger and bigger markets: Duluth, Minn., Atlanta, Ga. and then, six years in Philadelphia (``I spent some of my finest days in Philly,'' quotes Broadcast Legends. ``Vacations . . . weekends . . . sick leave.'')

His next stop was his biggest: the country's fourth largest radio market in San Francisco, where he surprised some skeptics.

``A lot of naysayers thought the Bay Area was too hip and the corny stuff would never work,'' said Sholen. ``Guess again. It's called human nature. People love to laugh. But when there was something serious, he stopped and poured his heart out.''

He had the top-rated music morning show in the market for 10 years.

After retiring from KFRC, Rose joined his son, Jay, who was chief engineer at KKIS-FM, and then moved over to KIOI-FM, where just two months into a new morning show, he had a heart attack on air and stopped working.

``He was a genius,'' said KABL-FM deejay Jim Lange. ``One of his things was the utilization of what we call drops, voices he could talk to when there was no one else in the studio. He did it all himself. He had a huge collection of sound bites and cabinets of old jokes. He was terribly entertaining and sweet.''

Wrote former Sharks' color man, Chris Collins: ``The guy exuded greatness, style and grace. I cannot think of where I would be today without that guy in my life in my developing professional radio years.''

Rose helped raise more than $10 million for the March of Dimes Superwalks and was master of ceremonies at a host of golf tournaments, including his own, for Special Olympics.

``In a business with so many big egos, you couldn't have found anyone as nice,'' says Sholen, a friend as well as a co-worker.

Sholen said he spoke with Rose last week, and the retired deejay was complaining about his long bout of pneumonia.

He is survived by his wife, five children and nine grandchildren.
Published by Mercury News on Mar. 31, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Don Rose

Not sure what to say?





103 Entries

BEN E. MCCOY

February 21, 2025

DOCTOR DONALD D. ROSE, YOU WERE ALWAYS THERE FOR ME DURING THE 1970'S & 1980'S WHEN I REALLY NEEDED TO LAUGH IT OFF AT THE CRUX OF MY GRUELING UPWARD MOBILITY CAREER. THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO CONSERVE THE BEST PART OF ME WHEN IT TRULY COUNTED. MAY YOUR WONDERFUL SPIRIT BE OUT THERE SOMEWHERE IN THE NEXT DIMENSION ENJOYING ETERNAL BLISS AND PEACE FOREVER.

David Morgan [email protected]

August 8, 2024

I was stationary YBI in the Coast Guard and listened to Dr Don every morning for 2 years it was Great David M.

STEPHANIE MORGAN

August 13, 2023

Dr Don was my morning go to before heading out to school.

John Frost

December 14, 2022

I´m Harriet Frost´s eldest son, she was Margaret´s and Bob McDermonts good friend in Fort Dodge, Iowa back in the 50´s through70´s. I was friends with Tom also and knew Peggy, I also met Don once in Calif with mom.

Shawn Cooley

November 23, 2022

Dr. Don, you are legendary, and my dear friend Alan Bruce, who had the privilege of working with you, and I remember you with tremendous fondness. Alan reminds me of you, which reflects your brilliance and love for those around you. May you rest forever. You earned it. Blessings!

ROSE Connolly

August 2, 2021

I miss you so much Dr. Don..you were an inspiration
to me..I also worked on air and loved it...great
experience !

Diana

May 3, 2021

I listened to him in the late seventies. I had to have my Dr. Don before going to work. I have a tear in my eye thinking of the funny, sweet man that was the bright spot in my day. Thank you Dr. Don.

melford fredricksen

November 19, 2020

i grew up in sacramento ca. and all the years of my youth and teens listened to the GREAT DON ROSE . There was none better i was just now thinking about him it brings back my youth when growing up before leaving and going off to war in vietnam. I didnt know until today that he was born in duluth MN. and here i am in moorhead Mn the end of my 28 year airforce career brought me here retiring from Grand F oks AFB in 1996. To me and nt sister Carol there was none better than Dr Don Rose RIP THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES OF MY YOUTH.mel

ED KESS

September 24, 2019

In high school, I listened to Dr Don at WFIL in Philly. Yes he got me suspended a lot... Just emulating the great man.
What a joy. Infectious you couldn't help but to feel good. All these years later, Sep 2019 you can still listen on you tube his last show in Philly.. A treasured fun time as a young man.

August 23, 2018

As a kid who grew up on Potrero Hill in the '70s, Dr Don brought me a ray of crazy sunshine every day. Thank you for getting me through the tough times.

Chuck Ingersoll

March 29, 2018

I don't think there was any other radio DJ who brought more joy and fun and enthusiasm and positive spirit to a day or a program than Dr. Don.

Matt

February 14, 2018

Thank you for everything Dr Don. You made my younger life better. RIP.

September 17, 2017

Dr. Don was a frequent subject of discussion among the instructor and students at my high school radio station in Marysville, CA. In the 70's. All of us wannabe DJ's admired Dr. Don immensely, To this day I will use subtle cornball humor on the air as an homage to the Good Doctor. Descansa en paz, Dr. Don

Jerry - Barcelona, Spain

Greg

September 6, 2017

You were the best.

Cathy Scott

February 22, 2016

Thanks, Don. Your wonderful humor and satire actually made me look forward to waking up early and heading into work. When I think of you, it is always with a smile.

Cindy Hudson

November 15, 2015

I listened to you everyday on KFRC radio. Thank you for all the music. You are surely missed.
May God bless you and your family during this time. God give them love, strength & courage as they carry on.
R.I.P. Dr Don Rose.
Sincerely,
Cindy Hudson

Mike Olson

November 15, 2015

RIP Dr. Don. We never met but it seemed like you were always a friend. Your upbeat program was encouraging especially in bad times.

Drake Ekard

November 15, 2015

I was 12 when KFRC announced everyone would be getting a rose. I wondered how they were going be able to pull that one off...then Dr Donald D.Rose was "delivered"! I'm in my 50's now and I will forever carry that memory. I loved listening to Dr Don Rose play the hits! R I P.

Harry s

March 30, 2015

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

December 10, 2014

In 1969 I worked in Delaware radio and used to wake up to Dr. Don and write down his jokes. Then a few years later I was in Wilkes Barre, PA, he sent me that famous Laugh track of his. I got the Wilkes Barre job because they wanted someone similar to the good Dr. I'm now in Las Vegas, retired.

Dan Patterson

August 25, 2012

I was in my early teens in Concord,Calif
growing up to the antics of Dr. Don He was the best. Rest in Peace

Michelle Leicester

August 13, 2012

Someone posted your picture on my Facebook feed and I was immediately plunged into nostalgia... I looked you up and found you had passed, which made me so very sad. You greeted me every single morning of my life between the ages of 12 and 19 (1977-1986). There has never been anyone else like you in media, and never will be. Thank you for your humor, mischief and hard work on behalf of those less fortunate. You are missed and loved.

mark chambers

July 25, 2012

doctor don you are truly missed i grew up listening to you and you were a true pro rip

Gary Schwaegerle

March 26, 2011

Yes I was 1 to grow up listening to Dr Don Rose. An amazing man he even meet the Pope. There is The Big 610 Celebration - Salute To KFRC Legends · Public Event coming up Tuesday, June 14 · 11:30am - 2:30pm http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=212520298764990&id=1458473483#!/event.php?eid=202514666434467 Gary Schwaegerle

Robert Speer

July 7, 2009

I must say i cant even imagine a morning in the central valley on my school bus without Don Rose,Thank you for the wonderful memories of my child hood and my you rest in peace.
ps look forward to the morning show again when my time comes!

Michael Mulliner

May 3, 2009

Dr Don will always be a part of my childhood.Rather riding the school bus or listening to my transistor radio ,I was tuned to 610 KFRC.Thank You Dr Don.For the memories,LIFE WAS BETTER because of you,keep them smiling in heaven.

John Corniel

December 19, 2007

Dr.Don,a fine person and a great entertainer.He was a big part of my childhood.It's a funny thing, my father never yelled at me to turn down the radio when Dr. Don was on the air.He definitely had the attention of all ages.I will miss him and never forget him.

Patty Leon (Chandler)

August 15, 2007

I can't remember not listening to Dr Don. He was it. No other stations. Radio will never have what he gave to us all.

dan habig

July 17, 2007

dr don.. When I was a kid, he was everywhere on tv and radio.zany and funny.. I managed a bobs big boy in danville,ca in the 1980's and dr don came in many a friday night and usually ate from the all you could eat seafood bar.he never drew attention to himself and was always gracious..peace..dan

laurie allen

June 21, 2007

AS a kid growing up in the 70's, some of my best memories are of Dr. Don in the morning. I remember when he had surgery on his leg and he did his broadcast from his room. What a fine man, a wonderful spirit and a true jewel to radio that will never be "seen" again. My condolences to his family, although I am jealous they got to actually live with him!

greg page

February 18, 2007

It is Feb. 2007 and I stumbled on this article. DR Don, you will truly be missed. I was there listening to you on KFRC all those years Laugin and Scratchin with you - Quack Quack... I even have some three stooges tapes that have you doing the intro and guest spots. Things were never the same when you left KFRC and you have been missed greatly. I remember when you had your hunting accident and waited each day to hear how you were doing. Thank You for everything....

allan rouge

July 29, 2005

Her at the end of July I find out about dr. dons passing he made an impression on my life too growing up!!I used to call the station to here his joke of the day.He touches me today watching and listening to old interviews.My best to kae& the kids.

Kevin Hilley

July 17, 2005

So sad to read the news of the good Doctor's passing. 'Ol DDR was a hero to me growing up in the Philadelphia area. As a kid, I woke up to his voice on WFIL every morning. What memories! I can say that he was instrumental in my getting into radio. My morning radio show will always be a faint shadow of what Dr. Don Rose did.



God bless DDR and I will look forward to meeting him on the other side someday.

Laura Merrill

July 1, 2005

My deepest condolences to you Kae and the whole Rosenburg Family.



Dr. Don was such a beautiful man and he had a heart that was big and warm. He had the best sense of humor of anyone I have ever known. But he also had a heart of gold and understanding.



I remember during the time of "the egg" when your daughter was pregnant. At the same time I was having some personal issues regarding my own pregnancy. My husband was not wanting me to go thru with it, because he had a pair of demons at the time -- alcohol and drugs. I called Dr Don while he was on air. He gave me time and compassion and he even said some very personal and encouraging words to my husband over the air so he could hear while driving to work that morning. Dr Don knew just what and how to say the most life changing words my hubby could ever have heard.



Because of those words we have a wonderful (mostly trying at times) daughter. Without those words we would not have gone thru all those very trying, hair pulling, nail biting years raising our now grown 19 year old daughter. But most importantly we would not be enjoying the love and wonderous times of our life helping her raise her own 2 year old son -- our grandson. A grandson who our daughter in turn gave us, as in a way, Dr Don gave us our daughter, with his BIG HEART and LOVE FOR LIFE. And by the way, my hubby also has 19 years of being clean and sober, which may have come to be by those encouraging words he said to my husband on the air.



I, too, as so many others have typed here grew up with his humor, jokes, banter the Sacra-Tomatoe's, Pin-Hole's, and his driving around the Bay Area looking for "License Plates" to give away goodies too. He found mine one day "LUV2KIS" and he had all the drivers around throwing me kisses. But what I remember most were his profound moments of sharing his love, his family and especially of sharing himself with us. To the memories and to you his family, may he always be watching over you with the same love in his heart and laughter in his soul. We miss you Dr. Don....NO ONE could ever fill your shoes.

Gregory Parganos

June 8, 2005

I just found out the sad news about the passing of Dr. Don Rose. I grew up in Concord, California, where he died. I remember going to school at Tabernacle Baptist School from 1977-1981 and Concord Christian High School from 1981-1985. He was a staple on the radio, since then I have lived in the Phoenix area, the Boston area, the Tampa area and I went to college in Seattle. He was the best radio personality I ever heard, and he was funny - so funny. I loved his show as a kid. He made the 1970s' the 1970s'.Strangely enough I had not thought about him for some time, and I decided to look him up on the internet to see what was up with him. Well, unfortunatetly this is how I found out about the sad news. God rest his funny soul.

Beverly Freeman Weber

May 17, 2005

What can I say? I don't shed tears for just anybody. I always knew I would for Dr. Don Rose. I listened to him so much during the 70's on KFRC. My locker number in high school was even 610...! I will always hear his voice in my mind and memory. Always...

Jennifer Lauchner

May 10, 2005

My prayers & deepest sympathy to the Rose family. I remember when Dr Don first came to KFRC. I had just gotten divorced and had moved to Santa Rosa with my two daughters. They were only 7 & 9 at the time, but they enjoyed listening to him as much as I did - I would laugh all the way to work in the morning.



The girls won tickets to a preview showing of the Donny & Marie movie "Going Cocoanuts" and were thrilled to have the opportunity to meat Dr Don in person. He made them feel very welcome at the Luau party and it was a highlight of their young lives. I felt very confortable letting them go alone knowing they were in his company.



He taught me how to have a positive attitude even when things weren't going in the best of directions. God Bless & thank you for being a part of my life.

Ed Fortenberry

April 19, 2005

I was the first in my circle of friends/family members to hear the sad news. It seems everyone I told felt something like what I felt... that a great part of our lives was gone forever. Rest in peace Dr. Don, thanks for making my High School years better. All my best to the family.

Mary Solon

April 17, 2005

My many memories of Don Rose included some not mentioned here yet. At 6:15 he would always do the weather and have to find his weather whistle. At about 6:30 there would be a bark at the door and Roscoe would come in. "Come on in, boy, and give me a love." (Dog panting) Then sometimes it would be a different dog and it would be Balzar. The following two lines were always said exactly as quoted: "And who is Balzar? Balzar is Roscoe"s father!"



There were family stories that I remember, too. One time Kae was sick after a trip to the Orient and almost died over the weekend. Monday morning Don came in and said "Thank God it is Monday." His dear wife was saved after a nasty illness.



Then there was the time when Don had his leg removed after a long time bone infection following a hunting accident. We heard about the surgery and the rehab. For all his tenderness, he was also one tough guy.



Then there was whacky Jane Dornacker whom Don embraced for her great sense of humor. We remember the day Jane went down in the helicopter in New York and Don's support for collecting money for her daughter.



There was also a story of a woman who had been in a coma and the family could not do anything to wake her up. They played a tape of Don Rose's show and told her it was morning and to wake up (or something to that effect). The woman woke up and later became a friend of Don's.



Do you remember when Don sailed to Hawaii and broadcast from his (small) ship at sea? It was a life long dream of his and he did it.



KFRC gave a start to many local news media folks heard on the show, the only three who come to mind are Ken Bastida, Mike Sugarman "Shoogie" and Jan Black.



And who could forget Don's teasing of Marvelous Mark? The Mobile Sturgeon was already mentioned. Don did many remote broadcasts in the sturgeon and was always willing to give autographs and listen to other's jokes.



My sympathies to Kae and the family. Although we lost him a long time ago when he went off the air, your sadness must be deep. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dana Nowak

April 17, 2005

The Bay Area has lost one of it's

Prince's of radio. Things won't be the same with out the Dr.

james rose

April 14, 2005

well done!!

Mark Fisher

April 13, 2005

I will always remember Dr. Don Rose "the funny DJ" from his time at WQXI in Atlanta in the 1960s when I was a teenager. Over 40 years later, I still enjoy playing some of his old airchecks.



An article about him has been added to Wikipedia (the online enyclopedia) to help preserve his memory and contributions to broadcasting. Thanks for adding to our lives, Dr. Don!

Kelly Frost

April 11, 2005

Don Rose was the reason I got into radio myself. I really admired him in his days at KFRC. I actually met him once at a Banana eating contest at the Southland mall in Hayward. Don and the Banana Splits! Oh, man that was a dream for a 10 year old kid in the Bay Area. Don will be missed.

Daniel Stroski

April 9, 2005

Don, I came to admire you as a young lad, listening to you on the "Big 610" from my childhood home, Concord, CA. I came to respect you as a young police officer in Woodland, CA and having your humor lift my spirits when the job made me do things that weren't always pleasant. Finally in the final months of your life, we became friends and even had lunch together a few times. You invited me into your home and even tried to fix your grandson up with my daughter. You prayed for my son while in Iraq, and was a continued source of inspiration. It seems that my admiration and respect were not mis-placed. You were as terrific in person as you were on the air. I am proud to call you "My friend" RIP my friend, save a place for me in heaven. And no BOSS jokes in Heaven, I am not sure how well they'll be received by the almighty.

Jay Peterson

April 9, 2005

One of the reasons I got into radio was Dr. Don. I grew up with him and KFRC in the 70's and today I learned of his passing. He is no doubt the greatest air talent the Bay Area has seen. He will be missed and my prayers go out to his family. Godspeed my friend and let the hits keep coming!

kent rogne

April 8, 2005

You have been an inspiration in my life. I will never forget your "wonderful" radio shows all those years, along with your faith in God. You changed my life, and I'm a better man because of you.



I will see you in the morning...



God Bless the Rosenberg family in this trying time.



Kent Rogne

Larry lilly

April 8, 2005

Greetings....it is really sad to hear the passing of the Dr. That last show at WFIL (Philly) made a real impression on me. I was later fortunate to get stationed in CA where I could listen to his morning gags. That made the rest of those 3 years so much easier to get thru. There are few jocks that stand out among the others, and the DR. did stand out! Thru the internet may his legacy live on. Thanks for being there.

Bill Crum

April 8, 2005

Thanks for making me laugh, you are missed.

Mike McVean

April 7, 2005

I listened to Dr. Don back in the early 80's when I moved to Sacramento in 1981. I was going through some rough times as a kid and listening to him on KFRC every monrning was a great way to start my day. Those were some great shows that he did and who would have thought that AM Top-40 would decline so much after he left. God Bless you Dr. Don...you will be remembered by so many people!!

Rick Dressler

April 7, 2005

The first time I heard Dr. Don was on a 45 RPM record, in 1980. I lived in Omaha, Nebraska, then. Eventually, I had the good fortune to move to SF, where I could actually tune in his show. I listened faithfully each morning, and just loved his program.

Over the years, I have personalized much of his material as part of my personality. Comments such as: "Geez, I'd better answer that, it might be the phone", or "In local news: a man walked into a screen door: he strained himself." have made their way into my daily life.

Now, I live in Minnesota. I am proud to learn that I have lived in 3 states that the Doctor has lived in.

I've missed him for a long time already. It's different now that I know he's gone. I'll miss him more.

Alex Horvath

April 7, 2005

Like most everyone in the Bay Area, I was a huge fan of Don Rose on KFRC in the 1970's-80's. I actually had the chance to meet him by chance a couple of years ago - and was impressed with what a wonderful person he was.



I had been swimming laps at the Concord Pool when I saw a familiar-looking man with one leg get in for a swim. Later, when he was done with his laps, I encountered he and a friend in the locker room getting ready to change. That's when I recognized the laugh. The unmistakeable, Dr. Don Rose laugh.



I didn't want to make an assumption, so I asked the two older gentlemen what they had done for careers when they were working. The friend of the man with one leg had worked for the power company. But his friend, he said, had a huge career in radio.



"Are you Dr. Don Rose?" I asked

"Yes I am," he said.



He was so nice, and agreed to let this freelance writer do an interview with him a few days later. During this interview I discovered that Dr. Don was a man who had a happy life - and that nothing made him more happy than being around his wife, children and grandchildren.



We are all fortunate to have had him in our lives. My condolences go to Kae and all of the Rosenberg's who I know will miss him greatly.

Marc Schoenitzer

April 6, 2005

I remember when Don Rose replaced Beau Weaver at KFRC in the fall of 73'. At first I thought why did they hire an M.D. to work at a Top 40 station. It became apparent after a few breaks that he was a Dr. of humor! Or should I say "Corn". I must admit, that like many, I thought this "Rube" would never last in a city that had previously employed the services of such "distinguished" luminaries as Don Sherwood, Don MacKinnon,Dan Sorkin & The Real Don Steele. Funny though, after awhile the good Doctor grew on you.

It's a very unique talent, when a radio personality can come across as a "buddy" type. Someone who seems to have a genuine concern for others. Some jocks have this gift of acting "as if". In Don Rosenberg's case, it was real.

There's no mistaking this one fact:

Dr. Don held the morning drive slot at KFRC The Big 610 in the nations number 4 market- San Francisco for 13 years!!!! Nobody else has done that. Before or since. That really says it all. Wherever you are Don, I'm sure you and Roscoe are making the crowds smile! "That's Riiiiiight"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "M"

Dave Leonard

April 6, 2005

From 1973 to 1978, Dr. Don's was the first voice I heard every weekday. Most people dread the sound of the morning alarm, but I was lucky to be able to start each day with a laugh and a smile. I hope the internet will continue to provide those clips and trips down memory lane.

susan williams

April 6, 2005

Thanks for the memories!

John Anderson

April 6, 2005

Dr. Don was alway smiling...his show was always fun and upbeat.

Even after he lost his leg, he continued to be that way. He is a Hall of Fame Legend of AM radio!!

Larry Garrisi

April 6, 2005

Just a few words, about my favorite “doctor”. I had moved to San Francisco in late 1973. Being an avid listener of radio. It didn’t take me long to get hooked up with Doctor Don. And his funny and wacky persona. I, like everyone else, enjoyed him. Through and through! His humor just made my heart laugh out loud. He made me feel good, even if I was having a bad day. Most importantly, I want to give Doctor Don his due. A friend and I just happen to be walking by KFRC. When right there, on the street in front of us. With a brief case in one hand, cane in the other. And a friendly smile on his face. Doctor Don took the time to talk to us. I remember how friendly and approachable he was to us. I have met many radio and TV personalities in my day. Doctor Don is right there at the top. With some of the nicest personalities I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I am very saddened by the news of his passing. And I am sure that the Lord has a great place for him. Doing what he does best. The morning show, in HEAVEN. Can’t wait to hear his new gig!!

Doctor Don. You will be missed by all that knew you.



Larry Garrisi

San Diego, CA

Lisa Lopez

April 6, 2005

I remember listening to Dr.Don Rose every morning ,it was a great way to start the morning before going to school.he would make me laugh with his wacky sounds and jokes. I never forget his funny laugh.I will always remember him as the funny man. May God bless and give you strength and comfort . Your in my thoughts and prayers.

Joey Oddo

April 6, 2005

Making God laugh as we speak! I was a little young to hear Dr. Donald D. Rose's radio show in the Bay Area, but I mainly remember him as the voice of Channel 44 in San Francisco. Whenever there was "video trouble," I'd hear Dr.Don saying "Hang loose, cats and jammers!" Later, I was reminded of him the first time I heard some old Stan Freberg material and recognized a couple of "samples" which had been lifted and frequently used by Dr. Don. ("Whaddya mean!?") Legendary Bay Area stand up comic Bob Sarlatte also used to pay tribute to Dr. Don is his act. At least in the early '80's he did, anyway. Ah, memories. Thanks, Dr. Don!

Sean Smith

April 5, 2005

I don't imagine there's a kid who grew up in the bay area in the '70's who wouldn't know the name "Dr. Don"; you wouldn't even need to add "Rose." "Dr. Don" was all you needed to say and they would know exactly who you were talking about. He just seemed so wacky and you just knew he loved what he did and he made your time listening to him fun and the day a little happier. I'm surprised by how much his death has affected me. My condolensces to his family. Goodbye, Dr. Don.

Jay Douglas

April 5, 2005

For all those years, Dr. Don was KFRC. His fast-paced humor and 1-line groaners should never have worked in the post-60s Bay Area. Don showed us that people of different views and persuasions could be brought together by humanness and humor. I had the honor of talking to him when he was broadcasting one of his many remotes from the KFRC mobile studio. When he found out I enjoyed writing jokes he urged me to send him some. He promised to read them and pay me for any he used. It was a gracious gesture, one he didn't have to make. In an industry full of Grand-Canyon-sized egos, Don was one of the real people. My condolences to the Rose family. You, and we, have lost a giant.

Dard Hunter

April 5, 2005

Dr. Don's passing has allowed me to reflect on the endless hours of happiness he gave me growing up listening to the Big 610. He was amazing. Thank you, Dr. Don for San Panty Jose, Sacratomato, Pacifica, and all the rest. Rest in peace.

Kurt Gillespie

April 5, 2005

Dr. Don was my alarm clock through Junior and Senior high school between 1972 and 1978. He became my e-mail pal about 3 or 4 years ago. He was a gentleman and a class act. He overcame so many medical problems and gave so much joy and happiness to everyone around him. I was grateful I was able to attend his funeral servie today. His lasting legacy wil be his wonderful family and friends. A little bit of Dr. Don will live on in all of us. -Kurt from Fairfield which is 45 miles south of SACRATOMATO! :)

Warren Tom

April 4, 2005

My heart pours out to the family over their great loss. Dr. Don has been one of a kind. I will miss his jokes, dialing the Dial-a-Smile Hotline, and my fond memories of listing to him in the mornings on KFRC. Dr. Don -- Thanks for the gifts of laughter and smile. You will always be the best!

K. L. Christie

April 4, 2005

Kay ..... PLEASE express our incredible feeling of loss when you next hear from "D.D.R." To you and all the family that supported him so well (and made for great material, too) my most profound sympathies!



I was fortunate to have met Don several times in the "Mobile Sturgeon" remotes ... at several south bay sites while the area patrol sergeant with SJPD. Great conversations between plays, and after shows. Also taught some college out of the area, where I would take copies of his broadcast to classes and "bet" that we had the 'BEST EVER' in the Bay Area. I ALWAYS collected!!!! He will virtually never be replaced!!!



Don, rest in peace ... we'll each check in with you in time, and resume "Laughin' an' scratchin' with Doctor Don Rose."

Doug Sharp

April 4, 2005

While I was growing up and ultimately studied broadcasting in the 70's, Dr. Don was a wonderful inspiration and fortunately, friend. I had the privilage to write for and perform with him (as JR) at KFRC a few times and he was the real deal...as nice a guy who ever sat behind a broadcasting mike and truly believed in the showbiz line 'anything for a gag', which is how I will remember him (along with that great laugh when he heard or told a great joke). We miss you and our thoughts are with Kae and the family.

Larry Dockter

April 4, 2005

My sincerest condolences to the family of Dr. Don on his passing. I remember listening to him every morning going to school or after graduating driving to work. He sure made my world better and I think of him every now and then to this day. Thanks Dr. Don!

Tom Allen

April 4, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Don Rose and his family today.

DDR gave me my first big break in radio in 1961 at WEBC, Duluth. His memory will forever be with me.

Beverly Borgman

April 4, 2005

I raised three teenagers during Dr. Don's reign, and I well remember our drives to school, and his humor helping to cheer my daughters on their "bad hair days."...Sometimes I thought his comments were in bad taste, but by today's standards, he was a saint!

Loni Reeder

April 4, 2005

Dr. Don Rose played an important role in my life, inspiring me to become involved in the communications industry. He was also, in some ways, my best friend in the 70's - someone I could count on for a good morning laugh as I commuted in to high school. Things were not all 'sunshine and roses' in my home at that time and Dr. Don's presence, if only on the radio, made my life more bearable. I had the priviledge of speaking with him on the phone a couple of times 'back in the day, and I wrote an EXTREMELY LONG poetic tribute to him right after he had his skiing accident (which I'm sure took him YEARS to read!) - but I was a true fan in every sense of the word, and I'm glad that I got the opportunity to let him know that he had a positive impact on my life. My deepest condolences to his family - and I hope that they can take comfort and pride in knowing that Dr. Don made a difference in perhaps ways they never expected. He will be greatly missed.............

Tom Allen

April 3, 2005

Imagine a kid of 19 growing up in Duluth, Minnesota, and you've got this great Top 40 radio station with fabulous DJ's. Just out of high school, you realize you've got to be a part of that. And so, with only about three months previous experience, you submit a tape, hoping that it's good enough. Shortly, you get a call from the program director, a fella named Dr. Don Rose. He asks you to come and talk to him, and offers you weekends at WEBC. Little did I know at the time, that I would be working for one of the truly great talents in broadcasting. And, little did I know at the time, that my own broadcasting career on the radio would span 44 years, and is still flourishing today. Thank you Dr. Don; memories of working with you will live with me forever.

Joseph Nawrocki

April 3, 2005

My sympathies to the family and friends of Dr. Don Rose. I grew up in Levittown, PA and remember listening to DDR on WFIL in Phila.



He was a great disc jockey who brought a lot of joy to people. May he rest in peace.

Ellen Murillo

April 3, 2005

Sympathies to Dr. Donald D. Rose's family. 610 KFRC will always be in our memories.

Ron O'Quinn

April 3, 2005

As a former KYA, San Francisco, jock I had great admiration for Don. He leaves a lot of happy memories for hundreds of thousands. Rest in peace, Don.

sally

April 2, 2005

I worked with DDR at KFRC in the '70s. What a trip he was. Even got rides in his limo!



Loved those Christmas morning shows. A class act.

Tom Esqueda

April 2, 2005

To the family of Dr. Don Rose: Please know that you are in my prayers. I just read tonight the sad news about the greatest radio disc jockey I ever had the pleasure of listening to in my life. It was a pleasure traveling to and then living in Northern California knowing that the I could enjoy the good Dr. weekday mornings on KFRC during my morning drive.

Thank you for sharing this great man with us and alowing us to be a part of your family! As many before me have already said, he will forever live on in all of us listeners who will never forget his on the air antics.

God truly blessed us all with the good Doctor.

Brian Harris

April 2, 2005

Your family has my deepest sympathy. His passing is the passing of a legend. I used to wake up to him every day with a "Have a Dr. Donald D. Rosey day". It was also an honor to have him present at our opening day of baseball (Concord Nathional Little League) in 1973 or 1974. He will have a place in our memories forever. Dr. Don -- Thanks for the memories. Brian Harris.

donna and ben calhoun

April 2, 2005

my first experiance with Dr. Don was the day we moved here from san diego. we turned the radio on early in the morning and heard" whats green and goes backwards..." followed by the loudest sniff possable..we love ya Dr. Don, god loves you too

Paul

April 2, 2005

WFIL in the Early 70's and me in my Baby seat, I do and will always remember you on the radio.

An e-mail response in early 2001 made my day. You were one of the greats and forever in our hearts and now your pain is over RIP.

Chuck Gagliardi

April 2, 2005

To Dr. Don's Family ... I worked with DDR at WFIL-AM in Philadelphia in 1970. I drove the Prize Patrol and did on-air segments with Don on on his great program, weekdays, 6:00 - 10:00 AM. He was always very kind to me ... simply a truly nice man and a terrific radio talent. I will miss him very much. My condolences to you.

Mike Chase

April 2, 2005

To Dr. Don's Family:



Dr.Don Rose was a big part of my interest in music during my teen years in Duluth, MN when he did the afternoon drive time show @ WEBC (Channel 56) AM radio. His antics and upbeat talk meant a lot to us baby-boomers. He never worked "blue", was ALWAYS interesting.



As a final tribute to his memory, I can best quote the closing to his daily show in Duluth as a fitting epitaph to a legend in radio:



"So, may you have Blue skies and Green lights--live it up, and sleep in the streets!!"



God Rest You, Dr.Don Rose

Pauline Earls

April 2, 2005

Like many, I have fond memories of Dr. Don's early morning show on KFRC. His sound effects and jokes were some of the best. My sincerest sympathies to his wife and family.

C Pajita

April 2, 2005

Bay Area radio has never been the same since he left. I still call Sacramento "sacra-tomatoe"... thanks Dr. Don! :-)



Be at peace.

My condolences to the Rose Family.

THE MORIARTY FAMILY

April 1, 2005

WE JUST WANTED TO LET DR. DON'S FAMILY KNOW HOW MUCH WE'RE THINKING OF THEM. OUR WHOLE FAMILY LISTENED TO DR. DON ON KFRC FOR YEARS. WE REMEMBER THE DAYS OF JANE DOORKNOCKER AND SUE HALL. WE REMEMBER WHEN HE SLIPPED ON THE BANANA PEEL GETTING OUT OF HIS LIMO. AS A CHILD I WOULD WAKE UP EVERY MORNING TO DR. DON PLAYING ON MY MOM'S RADIO WHILE SHE GOT READY FOR WORK. MY FAMILY AND I ARE SITTING HERE TALKING ABOUT HIM AND MY MOM RECALLED ONE TIME THAT HE TOLD A JOKE AND SHE LAUGHED TIL HER MAKEUP WAS RUNNING DOWN HER FACE. MY DAD SAYS TO LET KAE AND THE CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN KNOW THAT HE'S PRAYING FOR YOU. DAD SAYS HE WAS TRULY A BAY AREA ICON AND A GREAT HUMANITARIAN. HE HAS LEFT US ALL WITH SO MANY GREAT MEMORIES. WE HAVE ALL MISSED HEARING HIM ON THE RADIO. MAY HE REST IN PEACE.

jodean torres

April 1, 2005

thank you for giving the joy of laughter to me you and rosco will forever be in my heart...

sue Williams

April 1, 2005

Like so any others, I remember listening to Dr. Don on KFRC in the mornings in the 1970's. He and Roscoe always got my mornings going. God bless the entire family.

Julie

April 1, 2005

I remember as a teenager listening to Dr. Don on KFRC in the 70's and early 80's.... His family remains in my thoughts and my prayers.

What a wonderful man....

Julie

April 1, 2005

I remember as a teenager listening to Dr. Don on KFRC in the 70's.... His family remains in my thoughts and my prayers.

What a wonderful man....

Heather Blair

April 1, 2005

I grew up in Concord. We listened to his show every morning as we got ready for school and my mom got ready for her commute--you couldn't stay sleepy for long listening to that show! He was a very big part of my childhood.

Pete Flynn

April 1, 2005

I've been gone for the bay area for a long time, but never forgot Don Rose. I woke to him in the morning and he provided laughs during my morning commute. And I enjoyed seeing him on TV too. I'm very sad to hear this. He will be remembered as a great man.

Lin-z Y.

March 31, 2005

My condolences to your family and the family of listeners, throughout the years, for the loss of the best therapeutic doctor. Laughter and obnoxious comedy are the greatest healers. Thank you for your gifts.

Kathy Gibbs

March 31, 2005

My prayers go out to you at this trying time. I remember fondly listening to Dr. Don on the radio on my way to school and work. He will be greatly missed.

Kathy Filice

March 31, 2005

God Bless a great man who if you were in a bad mood he would just make you smile. I remember in the 70's listening to him before school my Brother and I got the biggest kick out of him as did many. My Condolences to his family he was one in a million!!!

Diaz Family

March 31, 2005

Wow, We were just talking about Dr. Don last night and how great he was on the radio. Our deepest sympathy to the Rose Family.

Vicki R.

March 31, 2005

To the family of Dr.Don my deepest

sympathy. He was as they put it on

KRTY 95.3 this morning the best thing that ever happened to radio.

He kept so many happy in the morning

on the way to school and work. He is

gone but will never be forgotten.

He will keep them laughing in heaven

as he did here on earth.

Fairwell Dr. Don.

Rene Schlaepfer

March 31, 2005

My condolences to the family. I never missed a morning of Dr. Don on KFRC-- he inspired me to later go into radio as a DJ for a few years myself! He added so much to our lives here in the Bay Area. He is already missed!

Denise L

March 31, 2005

My deepest condolence to the Rose family. Dr. Don was the best! To this day I still use his phrase, "oh nooo!" I was born and raised here and listened to Dr. Don always. It was a sad day when his health forced him to retire. He's with God now and entertaining heaven!

Jena Robinson

March 31, 2005

My condolences to the family,

The bay area has definetly lost one of the best!

I can't remember a day without him except for his vacation days.

Jena Bailey-Robinson

formerly from San Jose, CA

J Carter

March 31, 2005

My condolences to the family. My fond memories of Dr. Don was from the early 70's. I grew up in Nevada City and KFRC was the only station that we could get. All my friends would repeat Dr. Don's jokes at school and would make for a very fun time. He will certainly be missed.

Linda Winkler

March 31, 2005

I grew up in the 70's and 80's with Dr. Don on the radio. He was the best ever. A very gracious man, I remember when he broke his leg and he broadcast from his home. He sent me a tape of his show while I was in israel years ago, what a great man. My sincerest condolences to the entire family. May he rest in peace.

Showing 1 - 100 of 103 results

Make a Donation
in Don Rose's name

How to support Don's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Don Rose's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more