Dick Purtan: A Detroit Radio Legend and Philanthropic Powerhouse Few radio personalities have made as lasting an impression on Detroit’s airwav
Dick Purtan: A Detroit Radio Legend and Philanthropic Powerhouse
Few radio personalities have made as lasting an impression on Detroit’s airwaves as Dick Purtan. His sharp wit, impeccable comedic timing, and ability to connect with audiences turned him into a household name over his 40-plus years in broadcasting. But beyond the laughter, Purtan’s dedication to philanthropy—particularly through his Salvation Army Bed & Bread Radiothon—has solidified his legacy as one of the most beloved figures in Detroit radio history.
Beginnings and the Rise to Detroit Fame
Born Paul Richard Purtan on July 11, 1936, in Buffalo, New York, Dick Purtan’s journey into radio began at WWOL Buffalo before landing a job at WSAI Cincinnati. Upon arriving at WKNR Detroit in May 1965, he changed his on-air name to “Dick” to avoid confusion with Paul Cannon, another WKNR disc jockey.
His arrival in Detroit marked the beginning of an era. Purtan quickly established himself as one of the city’s premier radio talents with his humorous takes, pre-recorded comedic sketches, and dynamic interactions with listeners. Whether poking fun at the latest news or delivering tongue-in-cheek commentary, Purtan’s ability to blend humor with relatable content made him a favorite among Detroiters.
A Career Spanning Decades
Purtan’s tenure at WKNR lasted until late-January 1968, when he briefly moved to WBAL Baltimore. However, his satirical jabs—particularly directed toward Maryland Governor Spiro T. Agnew—were not well-received by station’s management, prompting a swift departure back to Detroit. It was a pivotal moment that ultimately led him to ABC-owned WXYZ, where he truly flourished.
Over the decades, Dick Purtan became a fixture of Detroit morning radio, gracing the airwaves at CKLW, WCZY (later WKQI), and ultimately WOMC as well. At WKNR, by late-1965, Tom Ryan joined Purtan as his other morning show voice and sidekick. Ryan continued to follow Purtan through his moves to WXYZ and later CKLW, where he played a key role in crafting new “characters” he created for the show’s humor and dynamics. When Purtan officially transitioned from CKLW over to WCZY in January 1983, Gene Taylor became Purtan’s new producer. Ron Beuchamp, a master of character voices for Purtan’s CKLW show, he also followed Taylor to WCZY as well. Ryan remained at CKLW, having taken instead, the morning slot vacated by Purtan.
WKNR-AM | Dick Purtan | MAY 23, 1966
Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum
During Purtan’s time at WKQI, his “Purtan’s People” ensemble became a ratings powerhouse, entertaining audiences for nearly fourteen years. His producer and sidekick, Alan Muskovich, was instrumental in shaping the show’s distinctive comedic style, bringing to life a host of voice-over talents and characters. Other notable contributors to Purtan’s success included Colleen Burcar, John Stewart, Larry Lawson, Gene Taylor, Jim Ochs, Kelly Green, Eric Harthen, Lisa Jesswein, and the late Mark “Doc” Andrews, each adding their own unique touch to the program and elevating its humor and creativity.
This combination of Purtan’s quick wit and comedic versatility, alongside the contributions of his talented team, produced legendary moments that carried over seamlessly to his final radio home at WOMC, further cementing his place as a Detroit radio icon.
A Philanthropic Legacy: The Bed & Bread Radiothon
Dick Purtan circa 1978
While entertaining audiences was Purtan’s forte, his impact extended far beyond the microphone. In 1988, he launched The Salvation Army Bed & Bread Radiothon, a charitable initiative aimed at combating homelessness and food insecurity in Detroit. The radiothon became an annual event, raising over $30 million throughout the years—enough to provide millions of meals and thousands of nights of shelter for those in need.
Even in retirement, Purtan remained committed to the cause. In 2024, he continued lending his voice to the radiothon, proving that his passion for helping others never wavered. His dedication exemplifies how radio can be more than just entertainment—it can be a force for meaningful change.
A Lasting Impact
After retiring on March 26, 2010, Purtan didn’t fade into obscurity. He embraced the digital age, continuing to entertain audiences through his weekly blog on his official website and social media pages. He reflects on past radio moments, comments on current events, and keeps his signature humor alive, ensuring that “Purtan’s People” still have a place to enjoy his wit.
Inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame (2004) and the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame (2006), Purtan’s contributions to the industry remain unparalleled. His ability to balance entertainment with compassion, seamlessly blending humor with heartfelt advocacy, makes him one of Detroit’s most celebrated media personalities.
CKLW-AM | Dick Purtan [1st Show] | NOVEMBER 1, 1978
Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum
A Tribute to a Legendary Career
On September 15, 2022, Detroit Public TV debuted a special documentary celebrating his extraordinary life and career—”Detroit Remember When: A Tribute to Dick Purtan.” This hour-long tribute explored Purtan’s legacy through a collection of audio and video clips, archival footage, and interviews with his family, friends, and radio colleagues.
The documentary offered fans a rare look at Purtan’s journey, from his early days in broadcasting to his rise as Detroit’s most recognizable morning voice. Highlighting some of the most memorable moments from his top-rated morning show, the film revisited his infamous “Put-on Calls”—the comedic phone pranks that became a staple of his program—alongside the quick-witted one-liners and dry humor that kept Detroit laughing every morning.
The special earned producer Big Al Muskovito the prestigious Peabody Award, a well-deserved recognition for his dedication to preserving Purtan’s incredible radio legacy. Muskovito, a key figure in shaping the production quality and humor of Purtan’s broadcasts, brought the award to the 2023 Farmington Hills gathering, where Detroit radio aficionados and fans had the chance to see it up close—a fitting tribute to the team that kept mornings lively for decades.
A Voice for the Community
Beyond his impressive radio career, the documentary also focused on Purtan’s commitment to philanthropy. His Salvation Army Bed & Bread Radiothon, launched in 1988, has raised over $30 million to fight hunger and homelessness in Detroit. Even in 2024, long after stepping away from daily radio, he remains committed to the cause—showing that his dedication to giving back is just as strong as his ability to entertain.
A Legacy That Lives On
Although Purtan officially retired in 2010, his voice and influence continue to resonate. His weekly blog keeps fans engaged with his classic humor and reflections on current events, ensuring that even in the digital era, “Purtan’s People” still have a space to enjoy his signature style.
Celebrating Purtan’s Radio Legacy
Detroit radio fans and industry insiders continue to honor Purtan’s impact in a special way—by gathering each warm-weather season for a monthly meetup at a pizza diner in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Here, friends of Detroit radio reminisce, exchange stories, and relive the golden age of local broadcasting. It’s a testament to the enduring bond between Purtan, his colleagues, and the loyal listeners who followed him across stations throughout his career.
WKQI-FM | Dick Purtan [Soupy Sales] | JULY 13, 1992
Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum
From his satirical takes on politics to the comedic brilliance of his longtime producers, Tom Ryan, and Al Muskovito, Purtan’s morning show was more than just radio—it was a shared experience, a way for Detroiters to start their day with laughter. His storytelling, humor, and ability to connect with his audience transcended generations, earning him induction into both the National Radio Hall of Fame (2004) and the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame (2006).
Even as radio continues to evolve, Dick Purtan’s influence remains a benchmark of excellence and personality-driven broadcasting. His ability to uplift, entertain, and inspire ensures that his name will be remembered always in Detroit radio history.
Conclusion
Purtan may have stepped away from his iconic, radio broadcasts, but his legacy is as bright and as ever—echoing through the memories of devoted listeners, the laughter he sparked, and the enduring impact of his charitable work. His voice may no longer greet Detroiters on their morning commutes, but his influence on radio, humor, and philanthropy continues to shape the Motor City’s airwaves and beyond. Dick Purtan’s career wasn’t just about making people laugh—it was about making a difference. From the golden era of Detroit radio to the digital age, his voice has remained a constant source of joy, laughter, and philanthropy. His Bed & Bread Radiothon continues to help thousands, proving that the best radio personalities don’t just entertain—they uplift, inspire, and give back to the community.
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