KYUK has been serving the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta region of Southwest Alaska for over 30 years.
KYUK suffered a tragic loss on June 23, 2009 when general manager Ron Daugherty died suddenly of complications resulting from a severe allergic reaction. He passed away in Bethel, Alaska at the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta Regional Hospital emergency room.
Ron's wife, Jonna, and their son, Shem, have taken Ron’s ashes to Bemidji, Minnesota. Funeral services are Sunday June 28, 2009 in Bemidji.
Ron served in the U.S. Army for over nine years. He was stationed at various posts in the United States and in Germany. He received several awards during his career including two Army Commendation Medals.
Ron had been with the Public Broadcasting System since 1980. He started at KAWE Bemidji, Minnesota as a part time board operator, moving steadily up the organization to become general manager. He then spent 6 years at WQLN in Erie, Pennsylvania. In 1999 Ron moved back to a small market station when he accepted the job of general manager at KYUK AM/TV in Bethel, Alaska. He often said that Erie was great but Bethel was better.
Ron is survived by his wife of 41 years, Jonna, their sons Shem of Remer, Minnesota and Shaun of Honolulu, Hawaii, daughters-in-law Mary and Charlene and grandchildren Hannah, Lucas, Rebecca and Sarah.
He was preceded in death by his mother, father and one grandson.
Condolences may be sent to:
Jonna Daugherty
C/O Shem & Mary Daugherty
6827 State Highway 6 NE
Remer, MN 56672
Flowers and other condolences for the funeral on June 28th may be sent to:
Cease Funeral Home
2807 Irvine Ave NW
Bemidji, MN 56601
You can see his obituary on the Bemidji Pioneer website and leave comments for the family there:
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