Few individuals can boast the career in television that Bob Fransen can: from his beginnings as a post-World War II radio news reporter for WCCO radio, through KYSM radio in Mankato and then into the visual medium in 1949 at brand new WTCN-TV. He worked as a film editor, floor director, show director and production manager. He performed in a daily children's show, a weekly music show and was the station's first weatherman.

In the early 1950's, helped put WEEK-TV in Peoria, Illinois on the air, hiring the staff and even designing the studio building. He also anchored the nightly news. He returned to Minnesota to do the same for KMSP-TV, hiring as News Director a young man named Harry Reasoner.

In 1957, he returned to WTCN-TV, now KARE-11, in a sales position and stayed 25 years. During his 18 years as General Manager, WTCN was the top rated independent in the country. Among his lasting legacies at Channel 11 is the Health Fair, which continues in the community to this day.

In 1982, Bob took his talents to Hubbard Broadcasting. He was a key figure in the development of Sports production, Conus and U.S. Satellite Broadcasting. He left Hubbard briefly to become General Manger of Channel 29, returning as General Manager of KSTP-AM radio.

This glittering resume of contributions to our industry also includes service on our chapter Board of Governors. Bob has tirelessly raised money to fund our scholarships, also serving on the scholarship selection committee. He was recently elected National Trustee. It is an honor to place him in our Gold Circle.