Obituary: Lou Silverstein

Lou Silverstein

Lou Silverstein

Broadcaster Lou Silverstein of Prescott, Ariz., died Saturday, Jan. 18, 2014, in Prescott from complications of pneumonia. He was born on July 14, 1926, to immigrants Max and Anna Silverstein in North Branch, N.J.

The Family moved to Tucson, Ariz., when Lou was a small child, and he lived there through all his school years, including several at the University of Arizona. His first job in radio was at KTUC in Tucson.

He worked for many years as an advertising salesman for radio stations KRIZ and KUPD in Phoenix. With the help of two college friends, he purchased Prescott radio station KYCA in 1970 and was its general manager until his death. He was also the voice of J.P. Mulligan, whose Morning Report has been aired on "News 1490" since 1971. Lou created KAHM Radio in 1981, with the intent of giving "calm music" to central and northern Arizona. It is now enjoyed worldwide. He was inducted into the Arizona Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2002.

Swimming was another passion from childhood until his death. He is credited with creating the U of A swim team in 1945, and he earned many championships in college, Masters Swimming and Senior Olympics. He always supported youth swimming, believing it to be the best sport for building mind, body and spirit. Among the teams he supported were the Wildcat team under Frank Bush and those at Prescott and Bradshaw Mountain high schools.

He was a U.S. Army veteran, a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International and recipient of a Prescott VFW Post 541 Loyalty Award. He was a founder of the Yavapai Humane Society.

Lou loved to travel, and saw much of the U.S. as he competed in swimming events. He especially treasured his three trips to Paris to celebrate his birthday on Bastille Day.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, with whom he would have celebrated 50 years of marriage on March 9, 2014.

A Gathering of Friends and a Celebration of Life will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, 2014, in the Marina Room of the Hassayampa Inn.

The family suggest donations to the Yavapai Humane Society in the memory of Lou, at 1625 Sundog Ranch Road, Prescott, AZ 86301.

Services entrusted to Hampton Funeral Home, Prescott, Ariz.

Information provided by survivors.


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