Harley Flathers, a longtime radio broadcaster and newspaper columnist, passed away yesterday, Monday, January 25th. He was 84.
From Vimeo.com, they said "Growing up on the family farm, Harley Flathers loved radio, and when polio struck him shortly after high school, he turned to broadcasting and began a career that has lasted five decades.

After attending the American Institute of the Air in Minneapolis, he signed on at KAAA Red Wing (now KCUE) as sports director and farm director in 1953. Four years later he moved to KROC Rochester, working as an announcer and director of community affairs until 1968, when he moved to KNXR FM Rochester. He returned to KROC in 1971 and stayed there until moving to his current sales, promotion, and consulting position at KWEB AM/KRCH FM/KMFX FM/KNFX AM Rochester in 1981.

He broadcast the public affairs program "Harley's House" live from his home, and also hosted a television program for senior citizens. His many honors include the Rochester Exchange Club's Book of Golden Deeds Award, and he was named Person of the Year by the Minnesota State Council for the Handicapped, and a Good Neighbor by WCCO Radio. A shining example of overcoming a disability through courage and dedication, he symbolizes broadcasting's commitment and service to the community."

As a boy growing up on the farm, my dad would always have Harley on in the morning as he got ready for the morning chores. He really was one of the inspirations for me to get into radio.

I had the pleasure of working with Harley during my years at Clear Channel radio. Harley always had a joke and a smile, too. He recently called me up and left me a voicemail. It was just a joke and he said, quote, "Good news! The man who fell into the upholstery machine is now fully recovered!" Then he hung up. That was Harley. I still have that message saved.

I got a chance to see Harley being inducted into the Pavek Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame, too. He truly was one of a kind and will will be missed by me. RIP my friend. - Alan

Pavek Museum.com
Pavek Museum.com
loading...
Pavek Museum.com
Pavek Museum.com
loading...

More From Quick Country 96.5