The world of broadcasting lost a true luminary on September 11, 2023, with the passing of Richard Bertelmann, better known to millions as Dick Bertel. Dick’s illustrious career in radio and television spanned several decades, during which he left an indelible mark on the industry. His journey from the Bronx to becoming a beloved voice on the airwaves is a testament to his passion, dedication, and unmatched talent.
Early Years and Bronx Beginnings
Born on January 6, 1931, at Bronx Maternity Hospital in the heart of New York City, Dick was destined for a life in broadcasting. His parents, Meta Katherina “Martha” and Heinrich “Henry” Bertelmann, instilled in him a love for communication and the world of media. Even in his earliest days, Dick’s connection with radio was evident, as he would often mimic the iconic “W-E-A-F New York” station identification as he learned to talk.
Growing up in the Wakefield section of the Bronx, Dick attended local schools, including Public Schools 87 and 68. His parents’ separation in 1936 led to his mother’s remarriage to James Morton “Jim” Latz, a World War I veteran, and loving stepfather to Dick. The family moved to Darien, Connecticut, in 1944, where Dick would go on to attend Darien High School as a proud member of the Class of 1948.
The Radio Bug Bites
Dick’s career in broadcasting began in earnest in the late 1940s when he joined Fairfield County radio stations in the New York suburbs. This was a pivotal time in the broadcasting industry, marked by the lifting of the FCC’s wartime license ban and the rapid growth of commercial television. AM radio still reigned supreme, and Dick found himself drawn to the world of radio.
He started his journey with an unpaid position at WNLK in Norwalk, Connecticut, where he quickly made his mark, hosting “The Hi Teen Show” and collaborating with the Community Radio Workshop on productions like “The Mystery Theater of the Air.” In 1950, he even penned a supernatural drama for the station titled “The House of Retribution.”
Dick’s passion for radio led him to New York University, where he pursued a degree in broadcasting. There, he learned from industry giants like Brad Phillips, a legendary news anchor on WINS Radio. During this time, he continued to hone his skills at various radio stations, including WGCH in Greenwich, where he began using the name “Dick Richards.”
A Journey Through Radio Waves
Dick’s career journey was one of evolution, taking him to different stations and roles. He worked at WNAB in Bridgeport, serving as a continuity director and becoming deeply involved in the local broadcasting scene. His move to Stamford’s WSTC marked a significant step, where he embraced the name “Dick Richards” and expanded his responsibilities.
It was during this period that Dick met Jean Thies, his future wife. A chance phone call led to their meeting, courtship, and eventual marriage in November 1955, as they embarked on a shared life together.
Hartford Calling: The WTIC Era
In 1955, recognizing the need to move to a larger market to support his growing family, Dick set his sights on Hartford, Connecticut. Hartford was not only a thriving broadcasting market but also a hub of affluence and education. It was here that Dick Bertel’s career would soar to new heights.
He joined WGTH Radio, which later became WPOP, in Hartford. His journey at WGTH began with weekend assignments, hosting children’s talent shows and assisting with foreign language programming. Within weeks, Dick was promoted to senior announcer, co-hosting shows like “Luncheon with Dottie and Dick” and even managing acting program director duties.
But it was his move to WTIC Radio in 1956 that truly solidified his legacy. His first day at WTIC, May 13, 1956, marked the beginning of an extraordinary period in his career. It was here that he would transition from “Dick Richards” to “Dick Bertel,” a name that would become synonymous with radio excellence.
At WTIC, Dick wore many hats – staff announcer, program host, and anchor. His shows, such as “Conversation Piece,” “Americana,” and “Christmas Eve Shows,” captured the hearts of listeners and showcased his versatility. His annual anniversary shows paid homage to WTIC’s rich history, a tradition that endures to this day.
A Golden Era: The Golden Age of Radio
One of Dick’s most cherished contributions to broadcasting was “The Golden Age of Radio.” In collaboration with Ed Corcoran, an avid collector of early radio shows, they created a treasure trove of interviews with radio legends from the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s. This project provided a vital oral history of radio’s golden era and introduced audiences to iconic figures like Vincent Price, Don Ameche, and Marian Anderson.
The show was a bridge between generations, allowing younger listeners to connect with a bygone era of entertainment. It remains an invaluable resource for preserving the history of radio broadcasting.
A Multifaceted Career
Dick’s influence extended beyond radio as he ventured into television. He anchored newscasts and hosted public affairs shows on WTIC-TV, Channel 3. His dedication to broadcasting led him to manage WKSS Radio in Hartford and later assume executive roles at the Voice of America in Washington, D.C.
He also made contributions to major networks like NBC and the Mutual Broadcasting System. His work on these platforms showcased his adaptability and enduring commitment to the field.
A Voice of Authority
Throughout his career, Dick Bertel embodied the essence of broadcasting – a trusted voice in times of breaking news, emergencies, and momentous events. He was there to guide and inform the public during the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., among other critical moments.
A Legacy Remembered
Dick Bertel’s legacy is not confined to the airwaves; it lives on in the hearts of those who listened to his broadcasts, those he mentored, and the countless lives he touched. His dedication, warmth, and passion for storytelling made him a beloved figure in the broadcasting world.
On September 11, 2023, the world lost a true broadcasting icon. Dick Bertel’s voice may have fallen silent, but the echoes of his contributions will resonate through the airwaves for generations to come. We remember him not just as a broadcaster but as a legend, a mentor, and a friend. Dick Bertel, you will be missed, but your legacy lives on.
Rest in peace, Dick Bertel (January 6, 1931 – September 11, 2023).