Richard Bertelmann, better known as Dick Bertel, was an icon in the American radio and television industry. His remarkable career left an indelible mark on broadcasting, both locally in Hartford, Connecticut, and on the national and international stage. Yet, behind every great man is often a remarkable partner, and in Bertel’s life, that role was fulfilled by his beloved wife, Jean Thies.
Early Years and Family Ties
Dick Bertel’s journey began on January 6, 1931, in the Bronx, New York City, where he was born to Meta Katherina “Martha/Mattie” and Heinrich “Henry” Bertelmann. Henry had immigrated from Hemmoor, Germany, in 1909, and in 1933, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Dick’s only sibling was his brother, Henry John “Harry” Bertelmann, a World War II veteran.
Growing up in the Wakefield section of the Bronx, Dick attended Public Schools 87 and 68. His parents’ separation in 1936 and subsequent divorce in 1939 led to his mother’s marriage to James Morton “Jim” Latz, who became Dick’s primary father figure. The family relocated to Darien, Connecticut, in 1944, where Jim was managing the Marchand medicine cabinet factory, converted into a war plant.
During his early years in Darien, Dick decided to go by “Dick” instead of “Richie,” which stuck with him throughout his life.
The Journey into Broadcasting
Dick Bertel’s broadcasting journey began in 1948 when he started as an unpaid worker at WNLK, a daytime radio station in Norwalk, Connecticut. His talent quickly shone through, and he began hosting “The Hi Teen Show,” showcasing local amateur singers, bands, and teenage sketches. As WNLK gained a full-time license in the summer of 1948, Dick became a paid employee.
While at WNLK, Dick was also part of the Community Radio Workshop, a group of local hobbyist actors who produced “The Mystery Theater of the Air.” In 1950, he even wrote a supernatural drama called “The House of Retribution” for the show.
After completing his degree in broadcasting at New York University from 1948 to 1952, Dick moved on to WNAB in Bridgeport in 1951, working his way up to a full-time position. His journey continued as he joined WSTC in Stamford in 1954.
Love and Marriage
In a twist of fate, Dick Bertel’s path to love was intertwined with his broadcasting career. In 1954, while working at WSTC, he devised a plan to meet nurses residing in a nearby dormitory at Stamford Hospital. Under the pretense of being a producer seeking record requests for “The Dick Richards Show,” he called their dormitory, sparking conversations that led to a fateful meeting with Jean Thies.
Jean Thies, originally from Dunkirk/Fredonia, New York, captured Dick’s heart, and their courtship blossomed into marriage in November 1955.
The Move to Hartford
As Dick contemplated his career and the need to support his growing family, he decided to make a bold move. In 1955, he decided to seek opportunities in the Hartford-New Britain market, located approximately seventy-five miles from both New York and Boston.
Hartford’s affluent and educated population made it an attractive market for broadcasters, and it was home to prestigious stations like WTIC Radio. Dick’s career in Hartford began at WGTH Radio (now WPOP) in July 1955.
The Versatile Broadcaster
Throughout his career, Dick Bertel wore many hats in broadcasting, becoming known for his versatility and engaging interview style. He hosted several programs, including “Conversation Piece,” “Americana,” “Christmas Eve Shows,” “Saturday Showcase,” and “TIC Afternoon Edition.”
One of his most notable achievements was the creation of “The Golden Age of Radio” in collaboration with Ed Corcoran. This program featured interviews with radio actors, writers, musicians, producers, and engineers from the golden age of radio.
Contributions Beyond Radio
Dick Bertel’s contributions extended beyond radio. He worked at WTIC-TV, Channel 3, from 1957 until 1974 and managed WKSS, a radio station in Hartford, from 1978 to 1984. He later became the executive producer for the Voice of America (VOA), where he worked from 1984 to 1991.
During his time at VOA, he spent two years in Munich, Germany, managing affiliate relations for VOA Europe, a pop music service aimed at European listeners. His return to Washington, D.C., saw him creating “Talk to America,” an international call-in show.
Legacy and Retirement
Dick Bertel’s remarkable career spanned decades, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of broadcasting. He contributed to WTOP, NBC Radio Network, Mutual Broadcasting System, and more. His retirement was marked by his dedication to helping non-native English speakers improve their conversational skills.
Tragically, Dick Bertel passed away on September 11, 2023, at the age of 92, leaving behind a rich history of contributions to American broadcasting.
Jean Thies: The Supportive Partner
While Dick Bertel’s career shone brightly, his beloved wife, Jean Thies, played a vital role behind the scenes. Their fateful meeting in Stamford, Connecticut, led to a lifelong partnership that supported Dick’s career aspirations and his personal life.
Jean Thies, a native of Dunkirk/Fredonia, New York, stood by Dick’s side as he pursued his broadcasting dreams. Her love and support were instrumental in Dick’s success, allowing him to make significant contributions to radio and television.
In the world of broadcasting, Dick Bertel’s name is celebrated, but let us not forget the important role that Jean Thies played in his journey. Together, they navigated life’s ups and downs, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who knew them and the audiences they entertained for decades.