Chicago is mourning the loss of a broadcast legend today, after WTTW's John Callaway died last night at 72.
According to his producer, Callaway suffered a heart attack while shopping in a store in Racine, Wis.
A college drop-out, Callaway became a giant in Chicago's broadcasting circles. He often said that he came to Chicago with 71-cents in his pocket, but he worked his way up in the world of Chicago journalism, became the News Director at WBBM radio, and later founded the popular WTTW show, "Chicago Tonight."
His work is marked by more than 60 awards, including seven Emmy's and a Peabody award.
Callaway will be fondly remembered by all those who watched him through the years and, especially by people close to him and those who worked with him, including Sun-Times/NBC5's Carol Marin.
"John Callaway was a giant," Marin said.
She went on to say:
His death Tuesday evening has stunned and saddened all of us who ever worked with him. But his reach was far broader than that.
He was the face of public broadcasting in Chicago ... and a legendary newsman whose signature gift was his ability to interview absolutely anyone; presidents, mayors, authors, actors, economists. clowns.
As a very young man he arrived in Chicago with pennies in his pocket but parlayed his endless curiosity and considerable intellect into a news career that spanned the City News Bureau, WBBM radio and television, and Chicago's Channel 11.
Along the way he mentored scores of newcomers to the business he so easily mastered. I was lucky enough be included in that number.
Arrangements for Callaway's funeral have not yet been announced.
