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.
Breakout in Cincinnati
After starting out at WWOL in Buffalo, Purtan moved on to WOLF in Syracuse, and then landed at WSAI, a major Top 40 station in Cincinnati during the early 1960s. At WSAI, he began to refine the irreverent, quick-witted style that would become his trademark. His show stood out for its clever one-liners, comedic sketches, and fearless commentary, which often pushed the boundaries of conventional radio at the time.
One particularly notable moment from his WSAI tenure was when Purtan personally gathered $12,500 to promote and emcee a Beatles concert in Cincinnati—a bold and savvy move that demonstrated both his showmanship and his understanding of pop culture’s pulse. That event not only showcased his promotional instincts but also cemented his reputation as a rising star in radio.
His success at WSAI caught the attention of Detroit’s WKNR “Keener 13”, where he would move in May 1965, marking the beginning of his legendary run in the Motor City. But it was at WSAI where Purtan truly began to hone his voice, develop his comedic edge, and build the foundation for the decades of success that followed.
A Sidebar: Purtan Meets the Beatles
While working at WSAI-AM in Cincinnati, Dick Purtan was one of five DJs—known as the WSAI “Good Guys”—who were instrumental in bringing The Beatles to perform at Cincinnati Gardens on August 27, 1964, during their first North American tour.
WSAI’s Bob Harper, Dick Purtan (waving behind John and George) August 27, 1964. (Credit: Walter Burton)
Purtan, along with fellow DJs Dusty Rhodes, Mark Edwards, Steve Kirk, and “Skinny” Bobby Harper, each contributed $5,000 to secure the band for a $25,000 performance fee. They even sent a telegram to England to request the booking, and when they received confirmation, they scrambled to raise the funds—including Purtan leveraging his connection with concert promoter Dino Santangelo, a fellow National Guard member, to help produce the show.
The concert was a massive success, selling out instantly with a top ticket price of just $5.50. The WSAI DJs, including Purtan, introduced The Beatles on stage that night, igniting a frenzy of Beatlemania in Cincinnati.
It was a bold and historic move—and a shining example of Purtan’s early showmanship and instinct for cultural moments that would define a generation.
WSAI AM | Dick Purtan | April 20, 1964
Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum
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
While Dick Purtan built his reputation on laughter, satire, and unforgettable radio moments, he used that same voice and influence to uplift his community in powerful, lasting ways. A shining example of this is his long-standing commitment to the Salvation Army’s Bed & Bread Radiothon, an annual campaign he initiated in 1988 that has since become one of Detroit’s most impactful charitable traditions.
Recognizing the rising need to combat homelessness and hunger across metro Detroit, Purtan transformed what could have been a one-time fundraiser into a citywide rallying cry, using his morning show to elevate not only awareness—but action. Each year, the radiothon would fill the airwaves with heartfelt interviews, compelling stories from those served by the program, and Purtan’s trademark humor, inspiring listeners to contribute and get involved.
His ability to blend humor with humanity helped the campaign gain tremendous momentum. Year after year, the radiothon broke fundraising records, eventually amassing over $30 million—a figure that has translated into millions of meals and thousands of nights of shelter delivered to those most in need.
In honoring Purtan’s commitment, The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit remarked,
“There’s no one quite like Dick Purtan. His heart is enormous, and his ability to engage Detroiters to support our mission has had a direct, life-saving impact on our community.”
Even in 2024, more than a decade after his retirement from radio, Purtan remains closely connected to the campaign, participating in promotions and helping drive attention to the cause. His dedication is not performative—it’s personal.
In the words of a former campaign director for The Salvation Army,
“Dick didn’t just lend his voice—he gave us his soul, his platform, and most importantly, his unwavering belief that everyone deserves dignity, warmth, and a helping hand.”
The Bed & Bread Radiothon is more than a chapter in Purtan’s remarkable career—it is a beacon of what can happen when a media personality commits to meaningful change. For the many Detroiters who found nourishment, shelter, and hope through the campaign, Dick Purtan is not just a radio legend—he’s a hero whose compassion left a permanent mark on the city he loved.
A Legacy That Lives On
Although Dick Purtan officially signed off the airwaves in March 2010, his voice has never truly gone silent. The resonance of his impact is still felt not only in the archives of Detroit’s golden age of radio, but in the digital footprints he continues to leave behind. Ever evolving with the times, Purtan seamlessly transitioned from terrestrial radio to the online world, continuing to connect with his audience through his weekly blog and active presence on Facebook.
Each blog post is a reflection of the man behind the microphone—equal parts insightful, witty, and genuine. He offers a thoughtful mix of commentary on current events, nostalgic nods to radio’s past, personal stories, and—of course—plenty of humor that remains as sharp as ever. His musings serve as a bridge between generations, engaging longtime fans while welcoming new readers into his ever-growing community of followers.
His loyal audience, affectionately dubbed “Purtan’s People,” continues to check in every week, drawn by the familiar tone that once greeted them on morning commutes. While the medium has changed, the spirit of Purtan’s storytelling remains intact: smart, self-aware, and always with a touch of heart.
In a media landscape dominated by fast takes and fleeting trends, Purtan’s continued presence stands as a reminder of the timeless appeal of substance, personality, and authenticity. He’s not just reminiscing—he’s still contributing, still creating, still shaping conversations, proving that retirement from broadcast radio didn’t mean retirement from relevance.
Today, his blog serves not only as a creative outlet but also as a living archive of a voice that defined an era. It’s a place where Detroiters return to laugh, reflect, and reconnect with a storyteller who has, for more than five decades, made them feel seen, heard, and understood.
Dick Purtan’s legacy doesn’t reside in a single moment or broadcast—it lives on in the collective memory of a city, in the laughter of his readers, and in the enduring spirit of a man who never stopped speaking from the heart.
Celebrating Purtan’s Radio Legacy
Though the microphones have gone silent and the studio lights have dimmed, the spirit of Detroit’s radio heyday lives on—loud and proud—thanks to a loyal circle of broadcasters, fans, and community members who gather to honor one of its greatest voices: Dick Purtan.
The author, with Dick Purtan, in Farmington Hills, Mi., August 15, 2023.
Each warm-weather month, a cherished tradition unfolds at a cozy pizza diner in Farmington Hills, Michigan, where a cross-generational group of radio enthusiasts convenes. These meetups, informal yet heartfelt, serve as a living time capsule for Detroit’s broadcast legacy. At the center of it all is Purtan himself—a man whose impact on the industry and on the lives of his listeners is felt as strongly around that dinner table as it ever was on the airwaves.
It’s more than just a reunion—it’s a celebration of storytelling, resilience, and connection. Colleagues recount tales from long-gone studios, listeners share how Purtan’s humor got them through tough times, and audio clips from vintage broadcasts occasionally fill the air with the warm familiarity of his unmistakable delivery. Whether someone worked with Purtan directly or simply grew up tuning in every morning, there’s a shared reverence in the room: a deep appreciation for an era when radio wasn’t just entertainment—it was personal.
These monthly gatherings are a powerful reflection of Purtan’s enduring appeal—not just as a broadcaster, but as a human being. His ability to create community on the air has extended into real life, where friendships are forged and memories preserved. It’s not unusual for attendees to bring memorabilia, vintage promo photos, or even humorous voice impressions—continuing the legacy of “Purtan’s People” in new and meaningful ways.
And in a particularly special moment in 2023, longtime producer Big Al Muskovito brought along the Peabody Award he earned for producing the PBS documentary “Detroit Remember When: A Tribute to Dick Purtan”. Seeing that prestigious award passed around the table symbolized the immense pride this community holds for what they accomplished—and what they still represent.
These gatherings aren’t about nostalgia alone. They’re about preserving and honoring a golden chapter in Detroit radio history, with Dick Purtan as the heart and soul of that legacy. Through stories, laughter, and a shared plate or two, his influence continues to spark joy and pride in all who were fortunate enough to hear him say, “Good morning, Detroit.”
A Lasting Impact
Dick Purtan’s contribution to radio is not just measured in years or ratings—it’s measured in the millions of listeners whose mornings he brightened, the countless lives touched by his charitable work, and the generation of broadcasters inspired by his one-of-a-kind voice and presence.
Over more than four decades, Purtan didn’t merely host a show—he created a morning ritual for the city of Detroit. His signature humor, artful timing, and natural charisma brought people together from all walks of life. Whether delivering dry one-liners or orchestrating wildly entertaining “Put-on Calls,” he struck a rare balance between clever satire and genuine warmth that made him a trusted companion to his audience.
But perhaps even more enduring than his broadcast brilliance is the compassion he brought to his community. Through his tireless commitment to The Salvation Army’s Bed & Bread Radiothon, Purtan used his platform to address real needs—feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and reminding everyone that laughter and generosity can, and should, go hand in hand.
His retirement in 2010 marked the end of a broadcasting era—but not the end of his voice. Through his weekly blog and continued community presence, Purtan remains an active figure in the lives of his fans. His influence can still be felt not just in the memories replayed in the minds of loyal listeners, but in the microphones held by new generations of broadcasters who see in him a gold standard for personality-driven radio.
Dick Purtan is more than a Detroit radio icon—he is a symbol of what great broadcasting can achieve when it’s infused with purpose, laughter, and a deep love for the people it serves. His legacy is not confined to the past; it continues to echo, loudly and clearly, into the future.
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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