Long-time WGN-AM & TV Chicago Music Director Bob Trendler died Monday (7/18) in Florida. He was 99 and the oldest member of the Florida Broadcasters Club.
Trendler began his radio career at one legendary super-power station, Powel Crosley’s WLW-AM Cincinnati, and then spent most of his career at another legendary super-power station, Tribune’s WGN-AM. Back then being Music Director meant, among other things, conducting the station orchestra/band.
When TV came along, Trendler, as conductor of the WGN Orchestra, became the leader of the “Big Top Band” for the long-running children’s show, “Bozo’s Circus.” As “Mr. Bob” he is pictured second from the right, between Bob Bell as “Bozo” and Ned Locke as “Ringmaster Ned.” Also in the 1969 cast photo are (left) Roy Brown as “Cooky” and Ray Rayner as “Oliver O. Oliver.”
Trendler retired from WGN in 1975. He had resided in Ellenton, FL and died of natural causes at a hospice in nearby Palmetto.
A funeral service is set for Thursday (7/21) at 11:00 am at First Presbyterian Church in Bradenton, FL.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at the Shannon Funeral Home Town Chapel website.
