Floyd Kalber Obituary
The Associated Press
Published May 14, 2004, 6:36 AM CDT
Floyd Kalber, an Emmy-award-winning news anchor whose career included highly rated programs on two Chicago stations and the "Today" show, has died of emphysema, his family said. He was 79.
Kalber died Thursday at his home in west suburban Burr Ridge.
"He was the same kind of man in private as he was in public -- principled at all times," said his daughter, Kathy Kinsella.
Kalber was hired in 1960 by NBC News after a decade as the one-person news department of KMTV-TV in his native Omaha, Neb. Within a few months of his arrival at WMAQ-TV he began a 16-year run as the 10 p.m. anchorman for the NBC-owned station.
Kalber left WMAQ in 1976 to read the news on the "Today" show. He stayed there for three years.
Kalber retired from the network in 1981, but was coaxed out of retirement in 1984 to help revive Chicago's WLS-TV by anchoring the 6 p.m. newscast. He enjoyed another run atop the ratings for 14 years and retired from the ABC affiliate in 1998.
He received the nickname "The Big Tuna" of television news because his power in the newsroom was perceived to be as great as the power of the late Chicago mob boss Tony "Big Tuna" Acardo, local broadcast historian Rich Samuels said.
"The Chicago journalism community lost a giant with the passing of Floyd Kalber," said Steve Scott, president of the Illinois News Broadcasters Association. "Mr. Kalber was able to mix rock solid authority with his pleasant, folksy demeanor to create a larger-than-life persona."
The winner of five Emmy Awards, Kalber was inducted into the Chicago Journalism Hall of Fame and the Silver Circle of the Chicago Television Academy.
Kalber spent one semester in the journalism department of Creighton University and also served in the South Pacific during World War II.
In addition to his daughter, Kalber is survived by his wife of 57 years, Betty, a son and six grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements were pending.
Copyright © 2004, The Associated Press
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Gary J. Mion
February 10, 2025
In the late '60's I participated in high school speech tournaments. At my school's tournament my senior year, they added an event called Television News Broadcasting. I entered and, much to my surprise, I won. But the best part of the event was reading one of the judges' critique forms. It read in part, "...the next Floyd Kalber." Here it is, 53 years later, and I still remember that. Floyd Kalber was a fixture in Chicagoland news, and I took that comment as high praise.
Bradley F. Rogers
December 20, 2024
I am sorry for the family's loss of their dear father, husband and grandfather. I was fortunate to witness a Floyd Kalber news broadcast live. I was 11 or 12 years of age and a Mr. Albert that worked with Mr. Kalber brought me to NBC studio in down town Chicago around 1965/66. The experience was great and I recall it with fondness 59 years later. Back then the news broadcasters were very special to young minds.
Karen McHenry
September 1, 2020
I never met Mr. Kalber, but my dad was his brother Jim’s best friend. I grew up hearing family stories. Jim was very proud of his brother.
Kevin Willman
February 10, 2017
I worked with Floyd on a video for LaGrange Community Nurse back in 1991 and he was a true professional. I was just watching a program on "The History of Comedy" and they cut to a report that Floyd had done on the Today Show which reminded me he had passed.
Bless his soul!
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Charles Quesada
August 21, 2015
I am sorry to be adding this so late since his departure BUT I sure miss Floyd. I am a Chicago native though I moved to Florida in 1997 I still remembered his flare and great smile. What a wonderful man. I qwas just looking back at my times in Chicago and he popped into my head as someone I always looked forward to seeing on the news. My condolences! :(
Chuck Quesada - Fort Lauderdale, FL
DENNIS DAVIS
May 11, 2014
It popped in my to checkout the great News Anchors. Yes i do remember Floyd Kalber on KMTV 3 out of Omaha. Dad,Mom & my Sis,Me in Syrasuse;Nebraska. My condolences tho so late. I do Remember!
Dale Diamond
February 12, 2014
I was just a little boy in Omaha Nebraska. I still remember watching Floyd Kalber doing the news on channel 3.
Then one day he was gone. Off to Chicago.
Doesn't matter. I still remember.
Paul Schreiber
May 13, 2013
I grew up in Chicago, watching Floyd on NBC during the sixties. In fact, one day (on a day off from school) my Mom, my aunt, and my cousin were walking around downtown Chicago, and we went to the NBC studios for a short impromptu tour. There I saw Floyd in the hallway heading into the studio. I said "hello" and may have even shook his hand, I don't recall. I do remember him being congenial. He was a pro and a definite fixture in my young news-viewing life.
Roger Dooley
March 16, 2013
When I was in grade school I lived on South 52nd St. in Omaha. I'm pretty sure Floyd lived close by because I remember seeing him a few times. He was already a celebrity in Omaha; everyone knoew him by sight. Television was new and exciting.
As an adult, and living far from the midwest, I would occasionally see Floyd on the national news. I always thought to myself, "That's my guy!" Always the professional, always a straight shooter. So today, for some unknown reason, I decided to google his name and see what happened. My very best wishes to his family.
Eugene Okamoto
February 19, 2013
I wish to I add my comments to this guestbook even though 12 years have gone by. I watched Mr.Kalber during his time on Today. I met Mr. Kalber around the early 1970s. Thru my mother at The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, on The Big Island of Hawaii. What a gentleman he was. And nice enough to say hello to a young, newly hired television reporter. It was certainly a highlight of my broadcasting career. Of course, Mr. Kalber was not in his on air attire. I believe he wore all white--shirt, shorts, shoes. Oh, and a pair of sunglasses. But, he dud present me with a formal autographed photo, which I still possess.
Kerry Sayers
May 12, 2011
Upon my arrival in Chicago, i heard of your death, Floyd. You are forever missed.
Tay Tollefsen
April 5, 2011
My parents, Ed and Lois Tollefsen were good friends with Floyd and Betty Kalber in the same apartment building in the late 1940's! Floyd was on the local radio station...KGFW, in Kearney, Nebraska. From there they moved on to the Omaha radio market. Mom and Dad always spoke fondly of Floyd and Betty and their friendship.
Dan Danciu
November 7, 2010
Buffalo didn't carry the late afternoon NBC News from Chicago but being an electronics student I would play with the tv antenna and pick up Erie, Pennsylvania. I miss newscasters like Floyd and Edwin Newman who did the noon hour newscast.
July 24, 2009
Upon the death of Walter Cronkite, my mind went back to the 60s when we lived in LaGrange and watched Floyd Kalber every night. He was a real smoothie. I had to google his name to find out what happened to him. Rest in Peace, Floyd.
Justin MacDevitt
July 7, 2009
I will never forget as a child watching Mr. Kalber I liked the way he would sign off the short newscast Floyd Kalber NBC news CHICAGO well put
Steve Owen
April 29, 2009
I used to watch and listen as Floyd Kalber broadcasted the news. No hype, no teasing, just what happened that day. I miss newscasters like Mr. Kalber, journalists who understood they were reporters, not the news itself. Watching and listening to Floyd was in a way like childhood - it was so regular one looked upon it as a natural thing, and didn't realize how special the time was.
Herb Starr
July 19, 2008
I often wonder what ever happened to.
I did TV news long after he was established.
Somehow tonight, his name popped into my head.
I Googled him and ended up here.
Such seminal talent is not easily forgotten.
May 16, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Jane Williams
July 8, 2007
I am so sorry to hear that Floyd passed away. Floyd, Betty and Kathy were so kind and generous with the underprivaleged children in the community. I'll never forget the day Molly was born besides the Berlin wall comming down Floyd was so excited to have a grand daughter he was flashing pink suspenders during the evening news.
L. Burris
June 15, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Kalber's passing. My parents and I always watched the Channel 5 news and truly enjoyed Mr. Kalber's delivery of the news and his comments. My fondest memory of him is sometime during the early 1970's, a time when one could go out to O'Hare and just walk around. On one of those visits I saw Floyd Kalber exit a waiting area and I followed him through the airport, hoping to talk to him and possibly get his autograph. He unfortunately went into the men's room, where I waited patiently outside. As he emerged, rosy-cheeks and all, I asked him for his autograph and he was kind enough to oblige. What a wonderful journalist, reporter, and a real gentlemen, he is truly missed.
fran froelich
September 26, 2006
I watched Floyd Kalber while growing up in Evanston, Ill. However, the memory I best remember was in Nov. 1978. He was reading the news when he came to a story about an Oregon couple named John and Greta Rideout. They'd been divorced and remarried about five or six times--and were now about to remarry once again.
Well, Floyd just lost it!. He laughed so hard that Tom Brokaw, who then anchored the show, had to finish reading the script. I was laughing as hard as Floyd and, I'm sure, so was the rest of the country.
Chalk it up, also, as another delight of live tv!
MIKE MILDER
July 20, 2006
FLOYD WAS THE PERSON RELIED ON FOR THE NEWS .......... WE ALSO RELIED ON HIS HELP IN OUR COMMUNITY OF OMAHA. HE WAS A FRIEND! I REMEMBER THE DAY THAT JOHN GLENN WENT TO OHIO AFTER HIS FIRST SPACE FLIGHT. WHILE VISITNG WE WERE IN A CHICAGO RESTAURANT WITH A COUPLE THAT HAD BEEN OUR FRIENDS FROM OMAHA. THREE FEET BEHIND US WAS MARION MCPARTLAND READY TO START THE SHOW WHEN OUT NOWHERE I HEARD MY NAME. IT WAS FLOYD KALBER SURPRISED TO SEE ME. WE SHOOK HANDS AND HUGGED AND HELD UP MARION MCPARTLAND'S SHOW.( SHE WAS SMILING.) I SAT DOWN AND FLOYD NOTICED MILT LEWIS AND HIS WIFE SITTING WITH US AND THE HANDSHAKES AND HUGS STARTED ALL
OVER AGAIN. FLOYD WAS JUST BACK FROM NEW CONCORD, OHIO. WE ALL SAT AND LISTENED TO THE LADY PLAY HER WONDERFUL MUSIC.......
T E
July 20, 2006
Floyd was a great figure in the Chicago market. the best media market in the world.
Gary Walters
July 11, 2006
Floyd Kalber was substitute host on the NBC Today Show, the day it was announced that the regular host, Frank McGee, passed away in early 1974. FK had a solemn look and feel for the events that day, & along with Newscaster Frank Blair, pulled together to make that broadcast a memory of mine for many years. FK was one of the last of 1st generation TV News anchors, and one of the best.
Carol Traut
April 6, 2006
I remember Floyd delivering the news in Omaha. Other newscasters teased him as "old stoneface." But he was one of the most professional and serious newscasters ever.
Joann Hill
April 4, 2006
When living in a small town not far from Chicago, I couldn't go to bed for the night without watching Floyd Kalber's newscast. He has always been THE newsman by which I measure all others and no one has ever come close. I just happened to think about him today and wondered where he was - I moved away from Illinois over 30 years ago and lost track. They just don't make broadcasters like Floyd Kalber anymore and it is very sad. This country needs someone of his caliber - especially during these troubled times. He will be missed.
John McElligott
March 4, 2006
Watching Floyd Kalber when i was a
kid doing a 5 minute NBC News Break
at 12:55 Pm which my former NBC Station
WBZ TV 4 Boston didn't air in the 70's
do to the Mike Douglas Show and at 1:55
Pm also, But WSBK 38 an Independent
Staion picked up the newscasts and
the 4:25 Pm newscast was aired
after Match Game on WBZ TV 4 in
those days. WJAR TV 10 in Providence
RI aired the news programs, And
Floyd anchor the Sunday night NBC
News from August 1973-December 1974
he replaced Garrick Utley and
Tom Synder replaced him, Then he
went to Today for a few years with
Tom Brokaw.
Charles Tatum II
September 19, 2005
I can recall seeing Mr. Kalber on WMAQ when I was growing up. He was one of those presences in Chicago television news that I'll always remember. He exemplified the sort of excellence you could expect from anchorpersons in Chicago who, it seems, all went on to national prominence. Think of Jane Pauley, Greg Gumbel, Bill Kurtis and others - all from Chicago. But Floyd Kalber was one of the very first.
Mary Lopez
September 18, 2005
I know its been awhile since Floyds passing but my prayers go out to his family I watched him many a night on ABC7 in Chicago here he was a fine man and I just learned about the DVD thats out that his son did in honor of his dad how nice he was a fine man we all miss watching him on the nightly news my best to his family
Gordon Boyd
August 9, 2005
I met Floyd Kalber shortly after he returned to Chicago to anchor the 6PM news at WLS.
I was a student in Medill, and he graciously agreed to be interviewed for one of my class assignments.
I asked about the "Big Tuna" sobriquet, and whether he exercised similar editorial control, officially or otherwise, at WLS.
He downplayed it, suggesting he was little more than a high-profile
hired hand.
But I watched his newscast from studio control that night. Like many newsrooms in 1983, WLS still used typewriters and hand-driven,
hard copy teleprompters.
His script was FULL of cross-outs --whole PARAGRAPHS re-worked -- the changes, quite obviously his.
No surprise: the copy was better, and his delivery was flawless.
Floyd Kalber epitomized the "command anchor" and newsroom leader.
What a terrific role model!
Michael Bruchas
August 7, 2005
I grew up watching FK on 5 and later watched him on 7. I attended the University of Tulsa with his nephew, Mark Kalber. I think IRON MAN may be a better tribute to FK.
Here's also a pleasnt thought for Chicago's other long time anchor - John Drury - who is battling ALS.
Dave Alpert
August 6, 2005
Remembering Floyd Kalber brings back memories of watching with my parents at 10:00 on channel 5 (when it was still WNBQ). I can even recall some of the commercials - Commonwealth Edison 'Little Bill', Santa Fe and others. He was no doubt an influence on my own career in broadcast journalism.
John Kalber
August 1, 2005
Sadly, I never knew of Floyd Kalber and have only now discovered him. He seems to be the most well known bearer of our unusual name. Although I am now 74 it had never occured to me that there were any well known, let alone famous namesakes! Here in the UK we number
less than 100 - maybe a lot less! How very nice to learn of a journalist who was actually liked as a man as well as being professionally respected.
Larry Langford
May 2, 2005
Growing up in Chicago, I was among the many who watched Floyd Kalber on a regular basis. I must say that he was part of everyday viewing in the Langford household. It seems so strange now to look back and see how a solo anchor could hold our attention for a full half hour with next to nothing but his solo read and a few pieces of crude film footage. I had to watch the entire newscast to see what the kicker would be, waiting for him to say” finally". A style I copied when I become a radio newsman in Chicago years later. Thank you Floyd, you showed us the power of the grin, the dramatic pause and true class. Larry Langford WMAQ Radio
Jay Phillips
March 26, 2005
I watched Floyd Kalber on NBC News when I would miss school and see him on the mid-day news breaks that he did from Chicago, no doubt. I always thought he was terrific. There will never be anyone else like him, and the world was a better place because he
was here.
Doug Brash
December 26, 2004
Dear Kathy,
My condolences to you and the rest of your family on your dad's passing. I can still see him emcee-ing our junior high's cake-walk fundraiser, to which he lent an air of committment and class, as he did to everything else.
Best wishes,
John Dingwell
November 28, 2004
Betty, Kathy & Mick-
I just got word on line of Floyd's passing and wanted to extend my heartfelt sympathies. I have only happy memories of Floyd and your entire family. I am so sorry I could not offer a word of comfort earlier, please know that our prayers are with all of you.
David Habben
August 9, 2004
I was very sorry to learn of Mr. Kalber's death. I only recently learned of his passing while visiting a Chicago TV website. I grew up in the Chicago area in the 1950's through the mid 70's, and always enjoyed watching Mr. Kalber report the news. There was nothing like local Chicago TV in the 50's and 60's. My very best to Betty and the Kalber family. On my next trip back to Chicago, I hope to learn where Mr. Kalber is interred and pay my respects.
Alvin Washington Jr
July 18, 2004
I saw the last few years of Floyd Kalber's news career when he did the 6pm news here in Chicago. I have to admit, I didn't know what to make of him upon first glance, but as I followed his newscasts, I could sense an air of newsy nobility - if there is such a phrase - about him as he delivered the day's events. Now that I've had a chance to read some of his other accomplishments, I - as an up-and-coming journalist myself - can look to his life as a blueprint for success in the business.
Thank you for graciously sharing this giant of journalism with us. He will be greatly missed.
Larry Nelson
July 6, 2004
I grew up in Omaha. Floyd Kalber always impressed me as a fair and very professional journalist, something lacking in the national media these days. I remember one time when I was in the Countryside Village drugstore, which was across the street from Westside High School. I was probably there getting a cherry coke at the soda fountain (remember those?). Floyd Kalber walked in and it was like a brush with a movie star as far as I was concerned. He was a handsome guy, well dressed, maybe just heading for home from KMTV's studios downtown. I am 57 so was a young kid back then.
I merely wanted to express my admiration for Mr. Kalber, and express my condolenses to his family.
Mary Schueler
June 12, 2004
Dear Betty, Mick and Kathy,
I was so sorry to hear about your terrible loss, Floyd was a wonderful man. The memories of the times I spent with all of you are long and cherished. I especially recall a trip to St. Croix - the battles between the kids and the adults (I have a lovely scar on my knee as a memento).
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Mary Healy Schueler
Roy Albrecht
June 2, 2004
Hi Betty, I remember in 1973, I rode my bike to your house on Bittersweet wanting to know if you needed someone to cut your grass. I rang the bell but no answer. I walked around to the back yard and I saw Floyd on a ladder cleaning out the gutters. I put my hand out, introduced my self and posed the question. He said" Well, I think I do need someone to cut the grass. The real thrill came when he took me to channel 5 one night to watch behind the scenes. There I met Harry Volkman ; who showed me how some of the special effects were done on the weather maps, and I met cameraman Bill Jenkins, I said to my self "I want to be a cameraman"; and I did, I went to columbia College for T.V. Production, and worked for about six years as a camera operator for various stations.Then other opportunites came and I have been a Funeral Director for the last 15 years. I will miss Floyd;
At least Skippy can finally play with Dad again.
Tom Lynch
May 26, 2004
How does one put into a few words what a person has meant to him? What's special to me is all the wonderful things Floyd did for others. He used to say "anyone can do what I do..." but in truth few did it as well. Honors always embarrassed him, but he was gracious when accepting. He did not tolerate fools well in his business--do your job properly and with care and dignity or get out. He was indeed the role model for role models. Betty and Kathy are also very giving, sensitive people, who loved their Floyd very much. We all miss him, but will never come close to what his wonderful family is feeling. We're all better off for having known Floyd Kalber, and what could be more important than that?
Charles Wilson
May 25, 2004
I have followed Floyd Kalber for a long time. He will really be Missed.
Marilyn/Bill Ford
May 25, 2004
We've known Floyd & Betty since our days at Univ. of Nebraska. They're dear friends and we'll miss Floyd, as will many. Our love to Betty & family.
NCK
May 25, 2004
EVEN THOUGH I DID NOT GET TO WORK ALONG SIDE WITH THE GREAT FLOYED KALBER I HAVE MET HIM AT MANY PARTYS IN THE PAST WHEN I WAS LIVING IN CHICAGO FLOYED WAS A GREAT MAN AND INCREDIBLE REPORTER
NCK
Dave Hamer
May 24, 2004
Floyd Kalber was one of the good guys!
I worked with with him in the early days at KMTV, Omaha. He was a man of great integrity and professionalism, and he demanded and brought out the best in all of us.
We will miss him.
Galen Lillethorup
May 24, 2004
Betty, Kathy and Mick. I think you know how important Floyd was to me ... for almost 50 years. We were both kids when I started working for him in the KMTV newsroom. Those were the early days of television, when a local newspaper editor who was a wee bit jealous of this new medium called him "the young man who reads the news." Floyd was a hero to all of us, and a kind and respected friend. I'm grateful that we remained in touch over the years.
Johanna Herrick
May 24, 2004
As a child, spent hot, humid summers with an aunt and uncle in Rogers Park, 6000 north. Thinking about Floyd brings back many great memories of evening newscasts,the Good Humor guy in his truck, and just how pleasant my own childhood was. Really got to know about Floyd's life through good friends, son Mick and his wife Annie in Hilo, HI. Small world! Thanks, Floyd, for being in it! Johanna Herrick
Dawn C
May 22, 2004
To Kathy and family,
Our sincere sympathy on the loss of your dad. Floyd will be remembered as a great Chicago newscaster. We will remember fondly staying in Steamboat. God bless. Dawn and Tom C. and family
Bobby D.
May 21, 2004
I can remember Floyd from my very early childhood, Was even distraught to hear he was leaving WMAQ-TV 5 in 1976. Was pretty glad to see him reappear in Chicago news in 1984 on WLS-TV 7. Unfortunately, He will be missed. However, Spiritually speaking; When each one of our times is up, Including mine of course. I hope to meet him in the eternal realms, As all my other loved ones & other ones, Who I EVEN didn't know (personally).
Martin Jacobs
May 20, 2004
As a young broadcast journalism student in the late 1960’s, I was training for a career in the media. Being from Chicago, my television news ‘mentor’ was Floyd Kalber. His excellence in news and his professional ease at communicating the day’s events to the public night after night after night was the perfect example to which I aspired. I not only wanted to be on TV as a newsman, but I wanted to be just like Floyd. And then there was that wry end-of-broadcast wit which was Floyd’s nightly treat to the viewer.
Eventually, I attained my goals, became a broadcast journalist and had my 15 minutes of ‘TV fame’. And, despite the glitz and glamour of the industry, over the years I remembered and used the basics of broadcast news, which were constantly hammered home by Floyd Kalber. Those have remained with me to this day. Now, as a businessman, out of the broadcast industry for many years, I can still draw upon the basics of communication espoused by my idol. For his inspiration I am eternally grateful. His passing is sad, it’s important news today, and tomorrow the story will be replaced by something else more immediate. Floyd Kalber would have liked it that way. Thank you Floyd,…and, good night.
-0-
Martin Jacobs
Highland Park, IL 60035
[email protected]
Nancy Harless
May 20, 2004
In the late 1960's Mr Kalber came to Prospect High School in Mount Prospect. His speech inspired us
to pay attention to things going on around us, because life was about to
change.
I wrote to Mr.Kalber and told him I named my first car after him.I think he got a kick out of that. He sent me an autographed picture with a letter, which said "A car named Floyd?!!
What a cool guy. I will miss watching him on tv.
Regards,
Nancy Lutz Harless
Kay Dingwell
May 20, 2004
Ive lost a good fried, the husband of my childhood friend, Betty.
I'm thinking of how happy my husband will be when Floyd joins him in the "Great Beyond." God Bless them both. Love, Kay
Gabriela Ramirez
May 20, 2004
To the family of Mr. Floyd Kalber, my deepest sympathy goes to you. May god be with him. He will be missed!
Martin Hawrysko
May 20, 2004
I remember my family would have the channel 7 news on at six, while we would eat dinner. Floyd always seemed like a nice and caring individual, and I missed watching his newscast, following his retirement.
I have just completed my first year in college, and I have chosen communications as my major. If I ever make it to the television and radio industry, I hope there are more class acts such as Mr. Kalber.
Sincerely,
Martin Hawrysko
Dominic Partipilo
May 20, 2004
Mr. Kalber was my favorite newscaster. He was one of those guys that was the best at what he did. There were no equals. I was sad when he left the air, and even more sad when I heard he passed away. They don't have anyone on the air that comes close to him now. Very professional! Very straight forward. We will miss him.
Shirley Tollis
May 20, 2004
I WORKED AT HINSDALE GOLF COURSE, AND EACH YEAR THE GIRLS WOULD GET TOGETHER FOR A CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON DOWNTOWN, EACH YEAR FLOYD WOULD SHOW UP AND BUY US GIRLS A COUPLE BOTTLES OF WINE TO HAVE WITH OUR LUNCH. THE GIRLS WOULD GIVE HIM GAG GIFTS AND HE WOULD GET SUCH A KICK OUT OF THEM. HE WAS LOVELY AND HIS FAMILY WERE BLESSED TO HAVE HIM ALL THOSE YEARS. CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY.
Dan Ronan
May 20, 2004
To the Kalber family:
Floyd Kalber's legacy will live on for years to come because of integrity, high standards and sense of decency he wanted and expected of others who worked with him. There are many people now in the news business -- who watched him on WMAQ and later WLS --- and now are reporting and anchoring all over the country. Floyd Kalber was a great broadcaster.
Dan Ronan
WFAA TV Dallas
Bob Reed
May 20, 2004
Floyd Kalber was my first big-time interview and also the most important. We talked back in 1972. He was the gold-standard anchorman. I was an aspiring green-as-grass journalism wannabe from Wright Community College. He agreed to meet me at NBC (in the Merchandise Mart, then), where we talked for a long time. I couldn't believe it then or now. The memory of that experience remains with me today. After the story was published in the college paper, he sent me a nice note saying he hoped I would pursue a journalism career. I still have that note. I've been in journalism for a long time and have interviewed top politicians, CEOs and other powerbrokers. Mr. Kalber outshined them all. I'm sorry at the passing of this generous man. All the best to his family and many friends.
Respectfully,
Bob Reed
Evanston, IL.
Norb Weitendorf
May 20, 2004
I remember my parents watching Mr. Kalber in the 70's and as a young teenager I remember to this day a commercial Mr. Kalber had done. The commercial was the "camera" asked everyone who they watched at 10:00 and they all responded, Floyd Kalber. The last shot was of someone sitting in a leather chair and the same question arose and the gentleman turned around and said "I get home after the news" and of course the man was Floyd Kalber. I don't know why this left a indelible mark in my memory after all these years, but I respected him for his honesty and enjoyed watching him as an adult and shed a tear when he retired and when he passed away. God speed to his family and friends!
Thomas Mohn
May 20, 2004
I am saddened to hear of Floyds passing. I met him in the early 60s and had lunch with him weekly at the Merchandise Mart. I was a veteran who had returned to school and was preparing for the ministry. Floyd graciously spoke to my youth group and helped me finish school in Tulsa. I will remember him with great love and respect.
Thomas Mohn
Robert Kolling
May 20, 2004
I used to caddy for Floyd when he would play at Ruth Lake in the 60's.
He had the heaviest bag of any golfer I ever caddied for - and the thinnist strap. My shoulder would be raw for days.
I enjoyed listening to his stories, he certainly had a way with words - colorful ones for sure.
But he was always good to his caddies.
God Bless Floyd Kalber.
Mike Cavender
May 20, 2004
Mr. Kalber was, in no small measure, responsible for my choice of broadcast journalism as a career. As a teenager growing up in Aurora, I developed my interest in the news and in television largely by watching him anchor on Channel 5. It would turn out that I would later work for WMAQ-TV--but long after he'd moved on to greener pastures. For that, I'm sorry--I would have truly enjoyed working with--and learning from--one of the very best in the business. We'll miss you, Floyd.
Caryn Beisner
May 20, 2004
I grew up with Floyd Kalber on the news and respected him. I was fortunate to be able to meet him & his family last month. He was a wonderful man and I feel very honored to know him even briefly. My condolences to his family and bless you all.
Eleanor Thornton
May 19, 2004
Mr.Kalber was truly the ultimate newsman. When he first came to Chicago, I was a young student and his honest approach to the news and his caring commentary about the stories he was covering impressed me so much I became a lifetime fan. His type of integrity has been missed.He set a standard that will be hard to match.
Joanne Beck
May 19, 2004
Everyone I knew enjoyed Floyd Kalber's newscasts. Unbiased and to the point, with the special touch of humor. In fact, I don't think you could have culled his political affiliation from his broadcasts! He did his job impeccably. My sincere sympathies.
Larry Randa
May 19, 2004
Mr. Kalber was my mentor. As I was preparing to be a newspaper reporter throughout grade school and early high school, he took me aside one day at his home in Western Springs and convinced me broadcasting was the way to go. And, after graduating with a radio and television degree from U of Missouri, I spent some really great years working as a radio and TV newscaster and sports commentator in southeast Michigan before returning home with invaluable experience that helped me in my 25 years as an editor and G-M for our family's newspaper group (LIFE Newspapers). I patterned my stand-up and newscast delivery after his. I used his very obvious passion for for broadcasting to motivate me every day. He was one of the great ones. I have him to thank for a very successful and productive career. My condolences to Betty and to both Mick (Go LT Class of '66!!) and Kathy.
Mary Sawatzki
May 19, 2004
I miss his voice. I remember him from KMTV days in Omaha. Condolences to his family and friends. He ranks with Chet Huntley, David Brinkley, Walter Cronchite, and David Garroway. He will be missed.
Scott Floyd Stewart
May 19, 2004
When I was in high school, I was assigned the task of interviewing a person whom I admired. I wrote to Floyd Kalber with my request, and was amazed that not only did he grant me the interview, but invited this nervous then-15-year-old student into his home. He was, indeed, one of the nicest persons I have ever met, and he was the ONLY newscaster I watched regularly. A few years after the interview I changed my middle name legally to Floyd. My condolences to the Kalber family---please be assured that I, Floyd #2, will never forget Floyd #1.
Martin Loughlin
May 18, 2004
I worked with Floyd as a stagehand first, and then as an engineer at NBC Studios at the Merchandise Mart during the later 1960s and 1970s.
During one of the broadcasts he and Johnny Morris made a bet that Floyd would not appear on camera with a cigarette in his mouth. I do not know the amount of the wager, but as the camera came back from commercial, there was Floyd with a cigarette in his mouth to win the bet. That is the kind of person I remember him as.
Signed,
Marty Loughlin
JOHN KLUFETOS
May 18, 2004
I WAS A VERY BIG FAN OF MR. KALBER.
I ALWAYS LIKE HIS NEWS. HE WAS THE BEST NEWS CASTER IN CHICAGO. AT THE END OF HIS NEWS HE MADE YOU LAUGH AT THE FINAL THOUGHTS OF THE DAY. WE WILL HIS HIM DEEPLY.
Duane Rhodes
May 18, 2004
I remember my Uncle Floyd doing the broadcasts during the Apollo launches. I remember how proud I was to tell my friends about how my Uncle was a news broadcaster. Floyd and Betty always remembered that I collected stamps as a youngster and would send me international stamps whenever they could. I will miss you Uncle Floyd.
Rebecca Woitas
May 18, 2004
My condolences to everybody who knew and loved Floyd (I was one of them) I had the last 7 years to get to know him in our cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program and I have to say - HE WAS A GREAT MAN and I am so honored to have known him. He cared, he loved,he laughed (and all of us laughed with him),he just was the life of the party in rehab. He will be so, so missed here.
I loved watching him on the news then one day he showed up in our program! My gosh, my mouth dropped! Floyd Kalber in our program?? Wow. And what a man he was to have here; he was fun and made a lot of the patients laugh and have fun while they were doing something they truely disliked (exercise). And now he will be remembered in our hearts and minds. And we still are laughing to this day at the things Floyd would say and do in rehab. We will never forget him.
Jeannine Somerville
May 18, 2004
I met Floyd Kalber at St.Cajetan when Father Vic Sivore was Pastor and a great friend of Mr. Kalber They were both great people and I am sure they are golfing together in Heaven. My Sincere Sympathy to his Family. Jeannine Somerville
mark bales
May 18, 2004
Watching a typical 1967 WMAQ newscast over the Internet with Messrs. Kalber, O'Conner, and Volkman, one notes the stark contrast between the solid newscast of that year and the lamentable state of local television news today.
David Whittemore
May 18, 2004
Our entire family here in Brazil sends our most profound sympathies to all the family. Although we never met, Mick has shared many a story with me and I feel as though I know him. He will be missed by many. Speaking not only as a fellow mason but also as ohana (family), I offer my help, my heart and my thoughts to you all. God bless you all and Godspeed to the victorious leader that Floyd was. Aloha pumehana, David Whittemore and family (Helena, Natalie and Fred)
Donna Kuhn-Sutter
May 18, 2004
I was so sorry to hear of Floyd Kalber's death. He was such a great
person and one of my newscaster
favorites. He was a Hinsdale
"personality". I went to High School
with his daughter. He will be greatly missed.
lucille (luci) clark
May 18, 2004
I met Floyd at LaGrange Hospital in the Re-hab program. What a lovely,humorous and truly genuine man. We joked a lot and the exercise became more bearable. I always felt that I knew Betty also. She was never (my wife) just always Betty. We talked about bean soup and scotch and popcorn. What a great guy. I will miss him.
Patricia Dean
May 18, 2004
I worked with Floyd for a number of years at WMAQ-TV in Chicago and produced his 10p.m. news program. I am honored to say I was a part of that broadcast. Floyd cared deeply about the news and the audience. He set high standards and he brought out the best in everyone on his team. We will miss him.
Ardythe & Walt Hager
May 18, 2004
We were born and raised in the Chicago area, and Channel 5 and Floyd Kalber was a"way of life." His wit and personality in delivering the news has never, and will never be matched. He will be missed.
Anne Browder
May 18, 2004
My friend and pal Floyd and I go back to the 60s and 70s at the NBC Newsroom, Channel 5 in Chicago. I had great admiration and respect for his professionalism and humanity, not to mention his chiseled good looks. My sincere condolence to Betty and the family.
Lillian L. Cohn
May 18, 2004
I want to express my depest sympathy! I have the brightest memories of Mr. Kalber. Only he made me enjoy the nightly news as no one has since. I and my late husband just LOVED his smile and sense of humor. Especially when he made the entire cast and crew "crack up". I still remember the "PRINDLE" joke..(re the shift of cars ie park,reverse,neutral,etc.). Remembering the humor and gist rather than the entire joke. I can still picture his smile and will always have that happy memory fresh as today!
Tom & Lee Gurrister
May 18, 2004
We always enjoyed watching & listening to Floyd on TV. Once we saw him at the Hinsdale show. Our Sympathy to his entire family
LISBETH CHERNIACK STIFFEL
May 17, 2004
My heartfelt sympathy. My Mother, Helen Cherniack of Omaha, knew and respected Floyd.
Art Cerf
May 17, 2004
I had the privilege of writing for Floyd when I first came to Chicago in the mid-70's.
He was unfailingly a gracious and generous man and above all, a professional at his craft.
I will miss him as his many fans miss him. He was the best.
Dave
May 17, 2004
You made things understandable and without hype.
Gail Powers
May 17, 2004
I was saddened to learn of Mr. Kalber's death. My earliest recollections of watching the news always included Mr. Kalber because he was the broadcaster of preference in my house. In an age when stations were vying for ratings and using ridiculous strategies, F.K. always was above that sort of nonsense.
My sympathies go out to his family as well as his many fans.
Gerald R. Babbitt Sr.
May 16, 2004
To the family of Floyd Kalber, In times like these is when we all need to pull together. I was born and raised in Chicago, and remember Floyd on the news! I'm 51 yrs old now and can say Floyd will be missed but not forgotten! May GOD Bless you all!
Kathy O
May 16, 2004
Mr. Kalber's brief human interest stories at the end of the newcast often were the only parts of the news I would not miss. No matter how horrendous or gruesome some of the news was on any given day, he somehow was able to put it all in perspective with just that last 30- to-45-second anecdote. He had a pleasing face, a soothing voice, a warm, sincere smile, and some twinkly eyes. I already missed him when he retired, and now more so. My sincerest condolences to his family. The Good Lord must have needed someone on His staff to relay pleasing anecdotes to Him once in awhile--He could not have made a better choice. God Bless You, Floyd Kalber.
Karen Smith
May 16, 2004
So sorry to hear the news. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Kathleen Garbarz
May 16, 2004
I was a big fan of Floyd Kalber. I never missed the news. When he left Chicago, I stopped watching the news and really have never found anyone quite like him. I will miss him. He will be in my thoughts. K Garbarz
Jeri Ray
May 16, 2004
I was sorry to see that Mr. Kalber had passed. I remember watching him on the news when I lived in Chicago. I grew up with him on the news every day.
E Howington-Smith
May 15, 2004
I grew up watching Floyd Kalber on the news in Chicago. His calm and soothing way in which he spoke is what I will always remember about him. Even if it was something tragic, he relayed the news softly and with compassion. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing and express my deepest sympathy to his loved ones.
Don Hickman
May 15, 2004
Floyd Kalber was admired by many reporters including me. I worked at WMAQ-TV NBC News in Chicago in late 1969 and 1970. I covered the last three months of the Conspiracy Seven trial, and was impressed with Mr. Kalber's courtesy, his kind compliments and his impressive personality. He was a kind and gentle man. Mr. Kalber will be missed. I extend my sympathy to Betty and the children.
Janet Fricke
May 15, 2004
My deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Kalber at this most difficult time. As a native Chicagoan, rememberances of his newscasts and his smile will be with me.
Ruth Monroe
May 15, 2004
Very few news reporters are around today that equal Floyd Kalber. Thank you God for his life and God Bless his family.
Jeannie Sanke
May 15, 2004
I grew up watching Floyd Kalber. He was a constant in my family's home. And since he left television, news has not been the same. No one measures up to the standard and the example he set. He was what news should always be. I missed him after his retirement and I mourn his passing.
Prakash Vaishnav
May 15, 2004
I was lucky to come in contact with Mr.Kalber through Dr.Murray Gordon( His best friend , buddy and co-golfer). Floyd had a huge sense of humour that he maintained till end. He was always interested in people and asked about my family's wellbeing etc. Myself and my wife Nikunj and son Soham will always remember him in a special way . God bless big hearted BIG TUNA.....Drs.Vaishnav Family
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