Connecticut has bid farewell to one of its broadcasting legends as Richard Bertelmann, professionally known as Dick Bertel, passed away at the age of 92 on September 11, 2023. His remarkable career spanned radio, television, and even international broadcasting, leaving an indelible mark on the world of media.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Dick Bertel was born on January 6, 1931, at the Bronx Maternity Hospital in New York City. His early fascination with radio became evident as he learned to speak, often babbling a version of “W-E-A-F New York,” the legal identification of a prominent New York City station at the time. Growing up in the Wakefield section of the Bronx, Bertel attended Public Schools 87 and 68.
His career in radio began in the late 1940s when he started working at Fairfield County radio stations in the New York suburbs, such as WNLK in Norwalk. During his time there, he hosted programs like “The Hi Teen Show” and engaged with the local community through his work on the airwaves.
While continuing his radio journey, Bertel also pursued higher education. He attended New York University from 1948 to 1952, earning a degree in broadcasting. One of his instructors at NYU was Brad Phillips, a news anchor on WINS Radio in New York, who would go on to have a remarkable career in broadcasting.
In the early 1950s, Bertel made the move to WGCH Radio in Greenwich, where he continued to hone his skills and passion for radio. During this time, he hosted programs like “The Teen Turntable” and “Rhythm and Song.”
WTIC Radio and the Birth of “Dick Bertel”
Bertel’s career took a significant turn when he joined WTIC Radio in Hartford, Connecticut, in May 1956. At the station, he began using the name “Dick Bertel” professionally, distinguishing himself from another announcer with the last name Richards. His versatile talents quickly became apparent, and he assumed various hosting roles, becoming known for his interviewing skills.
One of Bertel’s notable programs during his time at WTIC was “Conversation Piece,” which featured intriguing stories and facts about the world, often based on scripts from A.P.S. Inc. He also hosted “Americana,” a program that delved into historical subjects, current events, and cultural traditions.
Bertel was renowned for his Christmas Eve shows, where he celebrated the holiday season with special guests like Norman Rockwell, Leroy Anderson, and Virginia O’Hanlon Douglas, the real-life inspiration behind “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.”
In 1968, Bertel took over the ‘TIC Afternoon Edition on WTIC, injecting current rock music into the playlist and restoring the show to its number one position in the ratings.
The Golden Age of Radio and More
One of Dick Bertel’s most significant contributions to broadcasting was his work on “The Golden Age of Radio.” Together with Ed Corcoran, a dedicated collector of early radio shows, they created a monthly program that featured interviews with radio actors, writers, musicians, and more from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. This program provided a valuable oral history of radio’s golden era and continues to be celebrated today.
Throughout his career, Bertel was involved in breaking news coverage, including weather events and significant emergencies. He played a crucial role in providing news updates during the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the shooting of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King.
Dick Bertel’s influence extended to television as well. He anchored newscasts and hosted public affairs shows on WTIC-TV, Channel 3, from its founding in 1957 until its sale in 1974.
A Legacy in Broadcasting
After leaving WTIC, Bertel continued to make an impact in the broadcasting world. He managed WKSS Radio in Hartford from 1978 to 1984 and worked for the Voice of America, including managing affiliate relations for VOA Europe.
Bertel also anchored on WTOP Radio in Washington, D.C., and worked on NBC Radio Network and the Mutual Broadcasting System, owned and operated by Westwood One.
In his retirement, Bertel remained dedicated to helping non-native speakers of English improve their conversational skills.
A Farewell to a Broadcasting Icon
Dick Bertel’s remarkable career in broadcasting spanned decades and left an enduring legacy in radio and television. His passion for the medium, his dedication to storytelling, and his talent for connecting with audiences made him a beloved figure in the world of media.
On September 11, 2023, the broadcasting world lost a true pioneer and a Connecticut icon, but the memories of his contributions to radio and television will continue to resonate with those who had the privilege of listening to his broadcasts and experiencing his interviews. Dick Bertel’s legacy will forever remain an integral part of the rich tapestry of broadcasting history.