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WENDALL ANSCHUTZ Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for WENDALL ANSCHUTZ
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Suzanne Noa-Gali
January 3, 2022
Was active duty military, when I learned that he passed. I got to meet him once, while he was covering a fire in Midtown. He was a wonderful person, and I miss him dearly.
Tim Kelly
January 3, 2020
Wendall sold me my first car ever back in 1974. I remember him being very kind and patient with me, especially since it was a standard transmission, which I had never driven! I only dealt with him for a couple of days but will never forget him.
Suzanne Noa
January 3, 2020
God, I miss that face All was well before I left to join the military in 1985. Didnt find out until about a year ago. He was part of what represented home for me. It broke my heart to hear
Patrick Madigan
April 19, 2012
I sure do miss you Wendall, I'm sure your pleased with how Nita and the kids are doing, thanks to everyone who shared, like all who knew Wendall I feel like i have a special relationship with him.
love
pk
Nancy Paul-Nance
September 29, 2011
I just learned of Wendall's passing and am truly saddened by the loss of this consummate professional whose presence in broadcasting enlightened, cheered and comforted Kansas Citians for decades. His mother was my first grade teacher in Dorrance, KS (close to Russell) where my father was the school's principal in the mid-60's. The family was well loved in the town and everyone was proud of Wendell's success in life. My sincere condolences to his family.
Rakia Hasoon
June 8, 2010
I've known Wendall for more than two years, he was the father that stood by me, encouraged me, and pushed me to continue my journey.
I was away from KC I didn't have access to phones, or internet but one day I got the chance to use the phone for 5 minutes and I called my friend and she informed me of his death, I cried a river that day I lost my close friend and my father, who is going to give me an advice on every step I want to take in my life now?
Wendall I want to tell you that you can be proud of me now, I'm a Specialist in the US Army now, and I dedicate my success to you.
I miss you a lot.
Jim Hocker
April 1, 2010
Wendall and I attended KU together. He was my mentor at KANU-FM when I started my broadcasting career. I just found out about his passing. I am saddened over the loss of this most decent man. The KC TV community was very fortunate to have him all these years. He will be missed.
Sheri Hart
February 4, 2010
I just heard about Wendall's passing today....having grown up in Kansas City I feel a sense of loss even though he wasn't a family member. I feel like I know him and that he shared his life with me and the citizens of Kansas City. A loss indeed. God Bless.
Marilee Coffman
January 30, 2010
We are spending two months in the Mesa-Phoenix area, and I just read the news in the Star obituaries.
Wendall was always a good announcer/commentator with high professionalism. Our condolences to his family.
Marilee and Don Coffman
Olathe, KS
Pete Pierron
January 21, 2010
I still can't decide which I admired most about Wendall, his consummate professionalism as a broadcast journalist, or his affable and heart-warming nature.
I only had personal contact with Wendall twice, but both times left lasting impressions.
First, in the latter 1970s, I met him when he strolled into an inauspicious neighborhood "watering hole" in midtown to "wet his whistle" following a nightly broadcast. My first thought was that a person of his stature would be more readily recognizable at a higher-end, flashier establishment, many of which were within just a few blocks. But it was readily apparent that he was just there for momentary relaxation, and he was completely at ease making small talk with fellow patrons. After just one or two drinks he was on his way, leaving me with the knowledge that he was as friendly in-person as he appeared on-camera.
Several years later, when I first saw an episode of his "Place-to-Place" series, I thought about a small town in north-central Missouri which I felt would be a good candidate to be featured in the series. Without even expecting a response, I fired-off a quick note to him describing the town and detailing why I deemed it a good prospect for his series. I was both surprised and flattered when I received a response from him shortly thereafter, thanking me for my suggestion. He said that he had already done a segment on the town, Arrow Rock, Missouri adding that if I had seen the segment I would think that I had produced it myself, as he had interviewed all the people and included all the aspects of the town which I had mentioned in my letter. Wendall did not need to extend this courtesy to me -- I had not even told him that I had met him previously, That is just the type of person he was.
I have heard Wendall referred to as the "Walter Cronkite of Kansas City." I believe he richly deserves this title because like Mr. Cronkite, when Wendall reported the news he did so without noticeable bias. This is an increasingly rare quality which print and broadcast journalists alike would do well to nourish. As one of my favorite publishers once said, "I prefer my news and commentary on separate plates."
From the warmth and caring I experienced in my very brief personal encounters with Wendall, I can only imagine what an incredible husband, father and co-worker he must have been, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, and those close to him. I fear we will not see one like him for a long time.
Suzanne Arroyo
January 19, 2010
I missed seeing that face since enlisting in the military in 1985. I met him in person while he was covering a fire on 31st and Olive around 1968-69, and thought he was just the nicest guy ever. I just found out and was deeply moved by the news. I will always care for him. I still remember him saying something about just having a son and naming him Curtis. God keep and comfort all of you, his family and friends, and know that we shall all see him again.
all my loving, Suzanne Arroyo
sue perfater
January 17, 2010
So, sorry to hear about such a great man leaving us he will be missed
January 15, 2010
To the Anschutz family: be assured that thousands are mourning the loss of your loved one. Wendell was an icon of Kansas City television news and just a great guy. Keeping you in my prayers, Pam Smith
greg estes
January 15, 2010
God bless the Anschutz family in the loss of this special man. Like many others, we grew up with him in our living room. They sure don't make 'em like Wendell any more.
Richard and Regina Brown
January 15, 2010
God Bless You Wendell. You were family.
L'Tanya
January 14, 2010
In 1998, I was fortunate to win a Daytrip to Disney with the KCTV 5 crew. The humorous periodic feeds from Orlando, of Brian, Valissa, Gary, my son and me, kept Wendell in stitches. The more they replayed the feeds, the funnier Wendell became. In 2001, I sent an email to Wendell wishing him well with his retirement. He responded imeediately with ..."Ahhh, the Tower of Terror!" - referring to that Disney trip and my antics. He remembered, asked about my son, and thanked me for the well wish. I still have that email and wil forever treasure it. I admired him so much, and rarely missed his night cast. Even after living in Europe for 5 years, it was exciting to return to the Leavenworth / Lansing area, and be able to tune in to listen and watch Wendell. God blessed us all with a truly rmarkable man. Our prayers are with your family.
Nancy Parker
January 13, 2010
Nita and Family,
It's been a long time since we lived in Kansas, but we will never forget our old neighbors in Candlelight Meadows.
We were so sorry to hear about Wendall.Shirley called to let us know. Please accept our condolences.
Love,
Nancy, Berry and Chad Parker
Chris Rice
January 13, 2010
What fond memories I have of Wendall from KCMO days. Whoever wrote that Bruce and Wendall are up there having a good talk is quite right - I am sure they are solving the problems of the world right now, and they are many. Wendall was a wonderful person with great integrity and he will be missed by many family and friends. My sincere sympathy to his family. He was loved.
January 13, 2010
what a great man. I remember him being the MC for a fundraiser held for El Centro in Kansas City KS. Very giving person.
Norm Brown
January 13, 2010
I enjoyedwatching Wendall on Channel 5 in Kansas City when I lived in Kansa from 1980 - 83. May the Lord wrap his loving arms around you in this time of lose.
Andy Whiteman
January 12, 2010
I enjoyed watching Wendell from 1994-97 and again from 2000 until he retired. Wendell will be missed by all. May he rest in peace.
S. Hoskins (Revelation 21:4)
January 12, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Anita Mackrel
January 12, 2010
What a sad day it was to hear of the passing of Mr. Anschutz. He will always be remembered as one of the great anchors at KCTV5. Blessings and peace to the entire family.
Rhonda Mason
January 12, 2010
Wendell and I were friends during the 1970's when I was in Kansas City in marketing at TV GUIDE Magazine. I will always have found memories of him as a friend and as a professional in the news business
Bob Kealing
January 11, 2010
I'll always remember watching Wendall on tv growing up in Kansas City. When I chose to enter the television news business, my first internship was KCTV. Wendall never treated me like one of the little people. At the same time you never felt his kindness was part of some PR obligation either. It was just part of who he was. I remember him coming and speaking to my class at the University of Kansas. He's another of the great Kansas broadcasters in the tradition of Bill Curtis and KU grad Bob Dotson. I would call Wendall the Walter Cronkite and Charles Kuralt of Kansas City news. My friend John Holt at Fox 4 news is cut out of the same mold.
January 11, 2010
our condolences go out to your familly.
Connie Watkins
January 11, 2010
I remember 30 some years ago Wendall was ahead of me in line at the grocery store. I was so surprised that he was so very tall - and so very slender - even more so than he looked on TV! I felt as though I knew him, though, he just seemed so very nice on the newscasts..and he smiled at me that day...it left me with no doubt he was what he appeared!
January 11, 2010
I was Wendell's first passenger after he received his flying license. He was a teen ager and I was his father's secretary.. He was a terrific young man then and developed into a wonderful human being. Very good painter, and reporter superb. God Bless his family... Peggy Anderson-McPherson, Ks
Sheila Hamm
January 11, 2010
I have many fond memories of watching Wendall on the news. Our prayers are with his family.
Sherry Mason
January 11, 2010
I am from Kansas City, Kansas and I must say that I admired Wendell Anshultz and his serious approach to providing the Kansas City area with the latest news updates. He will always be remembered and respected.
January 11, 2010
Growing up in KC your face & voice will be always remembered. Rest in peace.
Pat Monks
January 11, 2010
A great man. A great senior reporter. Well loved by so many. May the warmth from all those people shower his family and loved ones at this time.
Debbie Bell
January 11, 2010
What an awesome guy. Wendall would come in to the repair shop where my dad worked-when he did he always told us what a very nice man he was...your family is in our prayers...
January 11, 2010
we also watched Wendall on the local news and am sad at his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Wendall's family and may your memories bring you comfort. Kathy and David Arvin Olathe Kansas
William Bichelmeyer
January 10, 2010
Wendell was such a great guy, very kind and do so much for the Kansas City Community, he will be missed.
God Bless,
Bill Bichelmeyer
Tom Hall
January 10, 2010
Wendall and I flew our old WWII trainers at airshows a few years back. We had lots of fun. Wendall was a great guy and will be missed by the folks here in Kansas City.
John Dolusic
January 10, 2010
As an Intern at KCTV in the 1980's had a chance to meet Wendall. The nicest memory I have was when he met my Mother (a native of Croatia). He said, that he loved her accent it reminded him so much of his Grandmother. My mother never forgot that moment. My condolences to his family and friends.
Carl Hampton & Family
January 10, 2010
We are so very sorry for your loss.
Mike Fahrlander
January 10, 2010
Thoughts and prayers to Wendall's family. I worked in the market during his tenure, and always respected his professionalism and personality. A true Hall of Famer in this town.
Ruth Short
January 10, 2010
My husband and I lived in Russell from 1947-1955. Wendall debated for Short so the relationship was close. We had a by-chance meeting with Wendall in KC some years ago. This was a very special event for Short, and, I think for Wendall as well. I hope memories will support you, We share your grief. Ruth Short & family
January 10, 2010
Our prayers go out to the entire Anschutz family. We grew up watching Mr. Anschutz, and to us he was The Newscaster. We also wish to thank his family for his Navy service as well. God bless.
Victoria Sabin
January 10, 2010
I did not know Wendell personally although I felt he was like family because we let him into our home every day. I was saddend by the news of his death and my condolences go out to his family. I no longer live in Kansas City but I can tell you that he was a large part of Kansas City and he will be missed.
Brenda Linder
January 9, 2010
Sirena and Travis,
Thinking of you at this time. May the memories help you thru the days ahead.
Love,
Dale and Brenda
Audrey Burtrum-Stanley
January 9, 2010
I first met Wendall in 1979 when I worked across town at WDAF. W. was dating my friend Helen then and I was occasionally going out with a fellow reporter from his station. Many times we all laughed and shared good times or discussed a tidbit about the behind-the-scenes of a news story.
Simply stated - W.A. was a sterling man.
I recall W. had a red bi-plane he was so proud of flying. He would soar above the glorious, golden Kansas fields of his childhood region.
I also remember W. painted - wonderful landscapes in rich hues on the earth and billowing storm clouds above in the sky.
I'd like to think of Wendall now, simply flying off into one of those paintings of his -- just zooming up and away into a place of great beauty, never to land again...
michael sheets
January 9, 2010
Wendall and I were fellow graduate students at the University of Kansas, and co-workers at KCMO for a while. Many years have passed since I have seen or spoken to him. But I will always remember him as a kind and gentle person and one of exceptional integrity. My sincere condolences to his family.
Tom Nelson
January 9, 2010
To view all of the other condolences left for Mr. Anschutz, just copy and paste this URL into your browser's window:
http://www.legacy.com/gb2/default.aspx?bookid=4999480196078&cid=full
BONNIE ROSS
January 9, 2010
PLEASE ACCEPT OUR HEARTFELT SYMPATHY.
WENDALL'S SWEET NIECE, TARA MADIGAN SAYERS, AND OUR DAUGHTER, KRISIT ROSS GLENN, HAVE BEEN BEST FRIENDS FOR 24 YEARS SO WE FEEL WE HAVE LOST A MEMBER OF OUR EXTENDED FAMILY.
WENDALL WAS A "GENTLEMAN" AND "GENTLE MAN" AND WAS LOVED BY ALL OF US WHO HAD THE PRIVILEGE TO CALL HIM "FRIEND".
WE PRAY THAT GOD WILL HOLD YOU CLOSE AND DRY YOUR TEARS.
FONDLY, BONNIE AND JOE ROSS AND FAMILY
Judy Reynolds
January 9, 2010
My heartfelt prayers to the Anschutz family and all of his friends. He was always a favorite of mine and will be missed.
Sincerely, Judy Reynolds of KCKS
Bob Thill
January 9, 2010
We are profoundly saddened at the news of Wendall's passing. Kansas City will always remember him for his eloquent style and human touch.
On behalf of those of us who had the privilege of working with Wendall, this truly marks the end of an era in Kansas City television journalism.
Bob and Susie Thill
bonnie Ross
January 9, 2010
OUR HEARTFELT SYMPATHY. WENDALL'S SWEET NIECE, TARA MADIGAN SAYERS, AND OUR DAUGHTER, KRISTI ROSS GLENN, HAVE BEEN BEST FRIENDS FOR 24 YEARS SO WE FEEL WE HAVE LOST A MEMBER OF OUR EXTENDED FAMILY.
WENDALL WAS A "GENTLE MAN" AND A GENTLEMAN" AND LOVED BY ALL WHO HAD THE PRIVILEGE TO CALL HIM FRIEND.
WE PRAY THAT GOD WILL HOLD YOU CLOSE AND DRY YOUR TEARS
LOVE, BONNIE AND JOE ROSS AND FAMILY.
January 9, 2010
OUR HEARTFELT SYMPATHY. WENDALL'S SWEET NIECE, TARA MADIGAN SAYERS, AND OUR DAUGHTER, KRISTI ROSS GLENN, HAVE BEEN BEST FRIENDS FOR 24 YEARS SO WE FEEL WE HAVE LOST A MEMBER OF OUR EXTENDED FAMILY.
WENDALL WAS A "GENTLE MAN" AND A GENTLEMAN" AND LOVED BY ALL WHO HAD THE PRIVILEGE TO CALL HIM FRIEND.
WE PRAY THAT GOD WILL HOLD YOU CLOSE AND DRY YOUR TEARS
LOVE, BONNIE AND JOE ROSS AND FAMILY.
Carol Price
January 9, 2010
To the family of Mr. Anschutz: A friend and I used to jokingly say, "Don't answer the door, it's Wendall Anschutz wanting to know if your dad is home," as there was a repetitive rap on the front door. What a great investigative reporter. Kansas City has lost a bright star in the physical sense, but a greater constellation is now in heaven.
J K
January 9, 2010
There will never,ever be another you. God's speed Wendall. My condolences to the family
Don Warnock
January 9, 2010
My family and I were very sorry to hear of Wendell's passing. I first met Wendell when I was about eight years old. My father and Wendell worked together at KCMO-TV in the 60's.
In the 70's and 80's I was fortunate enough to work with Wendell as an engineer and director at KCTV.
It was the best of times. We were like a big family and Wendell was always there to help everyone.
Wendell schooled me, mentored me and was my long time friend, he will be deeply missed. He was the Best News anchor this city has ever seen.
Good Night and God Bless You Wendell.
Sincerely, Don Warnock,Jr. & Family
Jerry Bash
January 9, 2010
I was saddened and shocked to learn of his passing. He was an icon in this city and he will be missed.
Ann shaffer
January 9, 2010
I will always remember you and Anne Peterson as the News people to watch...you both were wonderful and my parents and i watched you every night...you will be missed!!!!
JACK HANRAHAN
January 9, 2010
I have known Wendall for years and years, ever since the early school days growing up in Russell, together as fraternity brothers at KU and roommates, and as we began our careers. He was a wonderful, caring man and a best friend. We had kept contact over the years and seen each other a number of times. I am going to miss him tremendously.
Dorcas Allen
January 9, 2010
If all the world were made up of Wendalls - what a wonderful and peacefull place this would be to live. God's Blessings to his Family.
Gene and Dorcas Allen
Loretta Boothe
January 9, 2010
My heart will always remember Wendall not as a newscaster, but as a man who knew my sons, and always went out of his way whenever he saw me after Church to encourage me to trust and believe in their aspirations. At those times of mother doubt, he was such an encouragement to me. Our whole family loved and admired him. Our hearts go out to Nita, Curtis and Serena--knowing what you are going through, and also knowing how God's angels will be by your side. May his memory be forever a part of your soul. God be with you, Loretta Boothe & Family
Heather Haselrick
January 9, 2010
My family has watched Channel 5 as long as I can remember so it feels like losing a family member. May God watch over Wendell's family and be with them during this sobering time
Bree Fallon
January 9, 2010
I used to wait on Mr. and Mrs. Anschutz at Lonestar Steakhouse when I was in nursing school. You were my favorite couple to wait on because you just seemed so happy with one another and enjoying life. You were so kind and friendly to me. It was always a joy to see you both sitting at one of my tables, and I so enjoyed visiting with you. My prayers are with your family.
Clifton Body
January 9, 2010
God bless this family. This was one of the first newsmen that I locked onto when I moved to KCMO in 1986 with Ann Peterson. I watched him for years until he left the air.
I am sure he is looking down as we bring the news about him.
Duane Eklof
January 9, 2010
This is for Anne Peterson... I was really touched by your interview about Wendall on KSHB-TV the other night - it sounded like you two were real close all of the years you both were anchors on KCTV-5! I gotta admit, I moved over to Larry, Laurie, Len, & Dave at KMBC-TV by 1988, but before that, your news was the ONLY news in our house from when you arrived in 1979, until Wendall retired in 2001, and I know my late maternal grandma enjoyed your newscasts up to her passing in June of 1998. "Live, Late-Breaking, Investigative" just doesn't cut it for me, and unfortunately KMBC is following suit with "Coverage you can count on" - whatever happened to 'you know where our heart is', and 'where the NEWS comes first?' Both you and Wendall really showed that the news came first, and the 'fun' came around later - you both were from the WJM-TV generation that people like me grew up with from "The Mary Tyler Moore Show", and that kind of newscast is GREATLY missing! You and Wendall should both be proud at what all you both accomplished while you were on KCTV, and know that you are both greatly missed on TV today.
As for Wendall's family, he was really a great guy, and I'm sure you loved him dearly - hope that he helps you through this hard time, and that your memories of him will live forever in your hearts!
Duane P. Eklof
Liberty, MO
O'Dell Anderson
January 9, 2010
I never knew how important local news was to my life until I got hooked on Wendall Anschutz & Anne Petterson nightly newscast. Because of his love for his work, honesty, and integrity, I've became hooked on no other new telecast but KCTV5 to this day. My condolescence to the Anschutz family and may God bless him.
Vicki Marts Easterlund
January 9, 2010
My deepest sympathies go to the Anschutz family. Wendall Anschutz was such a kind and genuine man, not to mention a legend and a craftsman in his field.
I was in High School when my dad, Lee Marts, had the great privilege of making him a job offer to become a member of the KCMO team. Dad was Station Manager at that time. He was always so proud of the gifted people with whom he worked and often spoke of them at home as if they were members of his own family. I remember how thrilled he was when Wendall accepted the anchor position! He talked about how he knew Wendall would go far! Our family moved away for a period of time, but when Dad retired, my parents moved back to KC and Dad resumed his friendship with Wendall.
When my dad passed away several years ago, we had the extreme honor of Wendall offering to be the key speaker at his memorial service. His presence and generosity made me so proud!
A few years later, I became a member of Wendall’s Church parish and saw him often. I ride an Italian scooter and Wendall was fascinated with it. I often found him in the parking lot walking around the scooter, asking questions and commenting that he’d like to have one. I don’t know if he ever got one, but I hope he did!
How nice to read the comments in this guestbook and see familiar names mentioned like E.K. Hartenbower, Harold Mack, Bill McReynolds, Bruce Rice, Harold Ensley and many more names from the “old” KCMO family. So many memories Wendall has brought back!
My heartfelt prayers go to the Anschutz family!
Jolene Traskowsky-Shelley
January 8, 2010
I was so sorry to here about Mr. Anschutz's passing. I did watch him on the TV. I lost my DAD to lung cancer in (2006) So, I kind of know what you and your family are going through, my heart does go out to you all. God Bless.
JUDY MESCHWITZ
January 8, 2010
My family and I lived in KC during the 1980's and 90's. I was in a ladies club with Wendall's wife. We always watched Wendall and Anne, we appreciated and respected the way they presented the news. I know he will be missed by his family and friends. Our sincere sympathy is extended to all. "Good Night Wendall". Sincerely, Charles and Judy Meschwitz
JUDY MESCHWITZ
January 8, 2010
My family and I lived in KC during the 1980's and 90's. I was in a ladies club with Wendell's wife. We always watched Wendell and Anne, we appreciated and respected the way they presented the news. I know he will be missed by his family and friends. Our sincere sympathy is extended to all. "Good Night Wendell". Sincerely, Charles and Judy Meschwitz
Scott Harrison
January 8, 2010
Wendell Anschutz was the neighbor of my in-laws in the 1980's and I met him several times. He was a nice, unpretentious, geniune man who represented thebest that this city has to offer. He will be missed by all. God bless you, Wendell!
Gary Haglund
January 8, 2010
Anne Peterson and I had the same thought, which I later saw her mention during her rememberances of Wendall, He was Kansas City's own Walter Cronkite. He was always there to get the facts and tell the story the way it was ment to be told. He was and is the most trusted newsman in Kansas City. I was a brief acquaintance of Wendall's, I worked at the Kansas City ABC affiliate during the mid 1970's as a broadcast engineer. A very exciting time, lots of changes in technology, portable video cameras, 3/4 inch video tape, we could shoot a story and have it on the air in minutes compared to the film days. Wendall's and my path crossed several times during that tenure. Wendall always had a good story to tell, was a friend to all that knew him, was a mentor to many of us. I changed careers some thirty plus years ago, but continued to follow his career and admire his outstanding accomplishments as a newscaster and humanitarian. He is truly missed. My condolences and sympathy in your loss.
thomas kirkendolph
January 8, 2010
to the wendall family there is no sorry that heaven cant heal
Joe Gicinto
January 8, 2010
I was Wendall's barber for quite a few years. What a Great Guy. We had so much fun laughfing. At the shop,even after he was sick, he was still so much fun to be with . We will miss him so much! To see his art is to see the landscape through wendall's eyes . Wendell's family has our deepest sympathy. Joe Gicinto and Dee Dee Monroe
William Ribble
January 8, 2010
Our family grew up watching Wendall Anschutz. His warm caring personality came through the telecast so well we thought of him as our personal friend. We enjoyed him very much. We extend our sympathy to his family and to his TV5 family.
Bill and Mary Lou Ribble & Daughters
sherry hoffmann
January 8, 2010
sorry to here about wendall me and my faily watch he on tv 5 for years he will be miss in myfamily sherryhoffmann imeet wendall art show at theold indianspringmallinkansascitywith myfather
Don and Ruth (Tittel) Pickering
January 8, 2010
It is sobering to lose such a nice former classmate from Russell High School, class of 1956. He does bring memories of the good years of growing up in Russell, KS. We will miss him at reunions. Our thoughts are with his family.
Bill Morris
January 8, 2010
Wendall (Wendy) in high school, was one class ahead of me. One night while he was flying his father's Cessna 170 and I was flying my father's Cessna 170, all of a sudden, Wendall's navigation lights disappered. He was only a few feet from me at about 2000 feet going 120MPH. We had just been talking on the radio, but nothing now. I tried not to panic (not easy for a 16 year old) and flew as staight and steady as I could. After a few trying minutes, Wendall came back on the air. He and his long legs had accidentally pushed off the master switch! This is just one of many memories I will cherish of my dear friend. A true gentlemen from kid to codger.
David Cory
January 8, 2010
I met Wendell as a fraternity brother at KU around 1958-59. He was a very rare truly genuine nice guy. Even back then he was flying whenever he could.
Dolores Earnest
January 8, 2010
Wendall was my former student at Russell High School. He was a sophomore debater when I took over the program as a beginning teacher of English. We shared debate trips and classroom experiences for the years of 1956-59. I hope that I was instrumental in his chosen profession of speaking to the public. I was always so proud of him as I also watched him on TV when I visited my family in Blue Springs. My condolences to his family and loved ones.
Lyn Phariss
January 8, 2010
I met Wendall when we were both taking art lessons in Overland Park. He was one of the kindest & talented people I have ever met. He had a sense of humor that can never be forgotten. My heart goes out to his family for their loss.
Suzanne Ammann
January 8, 2010
My husband and I (along with many others born in the '60's) grew up watching Wendall on KCMO Channel 5 and continued through our adult lives as he was teamed with Anne. You could always sense his passion for professionalism in the media. We are saddened by his loss and send our prayers to his loved ones.
January 8, 2010
Wendall & Anne were my "must-watch" news team for 22 years & I was sad to see them retire. My sympathies to his wife & children. He was an affable, compassionate, professional man.
Martha E. - Shawnee, KS
Jan Boykin-Jefferson
January 8, 2010
I had the pleasure of working with Wendall at KCTV5 for many years. Even though we worked in different departments, he always had a friendly greeting when we met in passing. He was a down to earth person, an all around nice guy. He will be sorely missed. May God bless the entire Anschutz Family during their time of bereavement.
Kathy Ortiz
January 8, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
I heard what a beautiful person Wendall was through a dear friend (Rachel Welliver) God Bless Everyone!
January 8, 2010
We enjoyed Wendall so much. Although we never personally met him, we always felt that he was a part of our family. He always gave the news like he was talking just to us. What a champion of life. We shall miss him always. Thank you Mrs. Anschutz for sharing him with all of us. The Allen's- Blue Springs, Mo.
Cindy Chesher
January 8, 2010
I moved here in 1969 and just don't remember anyone else's newscasts except Wendall (& Anne). He was just the best...a real broadcasting legend...what else is there to say!
He will be greatly missed!
Pat Patton
January 8, 2010
Wendall defined "journalist". He was one of the best writers and reporters I have known. Beyond his professional skills, he was truly a nice guy -- not an easy compliment in a very competitive business. Kansas City television is richer for Wendall's contribution. He will be truly missed.
Pat Patton
Station Manager
KRON-TV
San Francisco
Ernie Webb
January 8, 2010
Wendy , my old RHS pal. Hardly a week goes by that I don't remember you and I flying around the countryside in your 170. From landing in a watermelon patch and tossing a couple in the back seat, to buzzing a couple of farmers and dropping leaflets about our back to school dance, only to have 90% of them land in Bub Dawson's front yard. The times we buzzed my sister's house and especially the time we flew almost to Salina at about ten feet off the ground beside the Greyhound bus that was taking Simone back to return to Belgium. I can only imagine what trouble we would be in for doing those stunts today. You were a hell of a good pilot and I was inspired by you to get a Cessna 182 in 1981 and enjoyed very much for 15 years. I thought about us a lot during many of my solo flights around West Texas. I would liked to have taken you for a ride in small payment for all of the great memories we shared in Russell. I know that you are on the highest flight of all now and perhaps one day we will fly together again. Ernie Webb, RHS Class of 1955.
David Crotchett
January 8, 2010
Like lots of folks, I watched Wendall on KCMO and later KCTV5 news for a number of years. I also had the pleasure of getting to spend time with Wendall when he was active in flying. I can't ever remember being around Wendall when he didn't have a smile and he always had time for his friends.
I am sadden to hear of Wendall's passing and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
January 8, 2010
I worked with Wendall for 5 years in the mid-eighties at KCTV. He was, in my mind, the quintessential tv newsman. I'm a 55 year old, 30 vet of the tv news business, yet somehow I feel that I've lost the guy that I always aspired to be. My deepest sympathies to Wendall's family -- especially Iabel, whom I remember so fondly.
Doug McKelway
Washington, D.C.
John Gulick
January 8, 2010
We now live in Jefferson City but when we lived in KC we always watched Wendall. He was an articulate, intelligent but gentle newscaster. May God be with his family in their loss.
Rev John Gulick
Doug McKelway
January 8, 2010
I worked with Wendall in the mid-eighties at KCTV for five years. He was and will always be my idea of the quintessential tv newsman. I'm 55 and a 30 year vet in the tv news business, yet, I feel as though I've lost the guy I always aspired to be.
Doug McKelway
mike abell
January 8, 2010
Wendall, was always generous with his time. He came many times to St. Joseph Health Center, when I was the CEO, to share his experiences about strokes. He helped many people deal with the debilitating situation they found themselves involved with. Thanks and God Bless. My sympathy and prayers go out to the family. Mike Abell, (retired) Leawood, Ks.
Jeanine Starr
January 8, 2010
I grew up watchin Wendall & Anne on KCTV5. He was a good anchorman & will be deeply missed. My thoughts & prayers are with the Anschulz family & friends during this time of sorrow & grief. May God Bless you all.
Chris
January 8, 2010
In my opinion,KCMO TV5 had the top news team in KC during the 1960`s! Don Harrison doing the news,John Yates doing the weather,and Bruce Rice doing sports,along with reporters like Wendall Anschutz....doesn`t get any better than that!
L. Hill
January 8, 2010
I moved to Texas 15 years ago and grew up in Kansas City. Always watched Wendall and Anne and remember them fondly. I know he has touched many lives on and off the camera and am sure he was something very special to his family. Watching Wendall and Anne are memories I cherish of being back home. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Dean Ann Brill
January 8, 2010
The faculty, staff and students at the KU School of Journalism extends their sympathies to the family of this dedicated, talented, and honorable journalist. He left quite an impressive legacy, both on and off the air. He will be missed.
January 8, 2010
I remember I used to walk over to the restaurant my mother waitressed at to meet her when I got out of school. Often, Mr. Anschutz was sitting at the counter. He was always polite and my mother spoke well of his as a customer. I know he was on in our household most evenings. He was a treasure.
fay sechtem (thomas)
January 8, 2010
Wendall & I were hi school classmates at Russell High School...he was class of "56, a grade ahead of me. I had the priviledge of sharing one-to-one time with "Wendy" (as he was know in hi school) during our theater play practices and having "deep" discussions with him about life. Wendy took me on my first (and only)
plane ride. Even then Wendy was an exceptional man. I think the best words I can say about Wendy are...
He was liked by EVERYONE! No one didn't like Wendy. How rare is that!
My deepest sympathy to his family. I know he will be missed!
Larry Colle
January 8, 2010
I'm one of the lucky people who had the pleasure of working with Wendall for many years. He was way beyond a nice guy, one of those people who truly cared about everyone and would be there for you in a time of need. My condolences and thoughts to Nita, Serena, Curtis and Iabil.
Brian Bracco
January 8, 2010
I had the privilege of interning with Wendall at KCMO in 1972. He took me under his wing and gave me wonderful advice about the business. He always was a gentle man. He was a great writer/reporter. At the time he had his own series can't recall the name but it was like "on the road". The stories he would find and tell would today still be the "gold standard".
A lovely man with a big laugh and smile for all. He truly was a class person and professional. My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family and friends.
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