Longtime Chicago radio manager William O’Donnell died Friday (12/3) at his home in Boca Grande, FL of apparent heart failure. He was 88.
O’Donnell served for many years as General Manager of CBS O&O WBBM-AM Chicago, helping to pioneer the “All News” format. He had also managed WCFL-AM Chicago and KNXT-TV Los Angeles, along with owning four radio stations in Wisconsin.
Having begun his career at KXOK-AM St. Louis, O’Donnell first joined CBS at the group’s in-house rep firm, CBS Spot Sales.
O’Donnell’s son, Chris, currently stars on the CBS drama “NCIS: Los Angeles.” His wife of 52 years, Julie, and six other children also survive, along with 23 grandchildren.
A funeral mass will take place Wednesday, December 8th, at Little Flower Catholic Church in St. Louis, MO. A memorial mass will be Thursday, December 9th, at Saints Faith, Hope and Charity Catholic Church in Winnetka, IL.
