After 47 years at Bonneville News/Talk 97.3 KIRO-FM Tacoma/Seattle WA, Dave Ross will retire from mornings at the station on Friday, December 19 with co-host Colleen O’Brien retiring alongside him.
Ross has been with KIRO since 1978, first as a news anchor before moving to hosting talk shows in 1987 before moving to mornings in 2013. He began his career at WVIP Mount Kisco NY and would work as a reporter at WSB Atlanta from 1973 to 1978. Ross also anchored daily commentaries for CBS News Radio and a daily technology feature “Chip Talk” for the Associated Press.
O’Brien joined KIRO in January 2014 to co-host with Ross after previously anchoring afternoons on News 1000 KOMO from 2004 to 2008 and serving as a television news anchor at KXLY-TV in Spokane from 2008-13.
Bonneville President/CEO Tanya Vea stated, “Dave has not only been a trusted voice in Seattle but a powerful example of journalistic excellence. For nearly five decades, his dedication to truth and commitment to the Seattle community have left a lasting impact on KIRO Newsradio and beyond. We are deeply grateful for his service and the legacy he leaves behind.”
KIRO Director of News and Talk Programming Bryan Buckalew added, “Dave’s curiosity and talent for making complex topics accessible is truly unique. While his daily presence will be greatly missed, we honor his extraordinary career and the lasting legacy he has created at KIRO Newsradio.”
And Bonneville Seattle SVP/Market Manager Cathy Cangiano said, “Dave Ross is more than just a broadcaster; he’s the heart and soul of KIRO Newsradio. His ability to present a balanced perspective and his distinctive voice have made him an irreplaceable part of our team. Dave prefers not to make a big fuss, but we can’t let this moment pass without honoring his incredible service to our station and our community.”
KIRO intends to to spotlight Ross’ career over the next few weeks with on-air tributes including appearances and messages from current and former colleagues, ;ocal VIPs and prominent figures in the Seattle community. Listeners can add their own at MyNorthwest.com/DaveRoss. The station intends to announce a new anchor for “Seattle’s Morning News” at a later date.
