Richard Wallack

Richard E. "Dick" Wallack

Former television newsman Richard E. "Dick" Wallack died on Thursday, November 14, 2013. Dick, whose 42 year broadcast career included on-air stints in Honolulu, Hawaii and Fargo, ND, as well as nearly 20 years in Duluth. He was born in Saint Cloud. Dick was a Marine Veteran of the Korean War participating in four major campaigns. He later served as an instructor at the Marine Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Virginia. Upon his discharge he launched his broadcast career in 1953 on WJON Radio in St. Cloud and also worked at KFAM. In 1957 he re-enlisted in the Marine Corps. Following discharge in 1960, he was named News Anchor for KXJB and KXGO television in Fargo, ND. He later worked for WDAY Radio and television in Fargo.
In 1966, he moved to Duluth to become WDIO TV's first anchorman, a position he held until 1971 when he was named anchor at KBJR TV. He was also the station's News Director during the early 1970's.
He was active in numerous professional and civic organizations. In 1972, he was appointed by Governor Wendell Anderson to the Minnesota National Guard Citizen's advisory committee.
He retired as Managing Editor and Producer at KBJR TV in 1994. He also served 14 years as a Career Counselor with the Minnesota Army Guard.
Dick is survived by his wife Sharon; son James (Denise), St. Paul; daughters Diane (Wayne) Sell, FL, Eileen (Frank) Dusek, Duluth, Sandra (Jon) Knott, Rosemount, MN, Patti Hall, Calif.; brothers Duane (Vi), Altoona, PA, David (Boots), Las Vegas; sister Lois Symoens, St. Cloud; sister-in-law Shar Wallack, St. Cloud; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his beloved Kiki.
"This is Dick Wallack hoping all your news will be good news, Goodnight".
Dick has requested there be no funeral. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Friends of Animals Humane Society, 1418 Hwy 33 S., Cloquet, MN 55720 or Animal Allies, 4006 Airpark Rd, Duluth, MN 55811. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, Duluth, 727-3555.