David Gazer
Issue #108 - May 16, 2024
This edition of Sky Studio is dedicated to David Gazer
This issue of Sky Studio is dedicated to David Gazer, who passed away May 14, 2024.
David was known during his 1970s broadcasting time in Sault Ste. Marie as a news guy who was made for the big time and he succeeded landing a news position at the then giant of North American major market radio, CKLW, Windsor, one of the most listened to and influential radio stations ever.
A college classmate and later broadcast colleague of Dave’s, Randy Russon recalls, "I first met David when we were taking Journalism at Sault College in 1974. He was a classmate of both Joe Petrolo and me and we all ended up working together at CKCY Radio.
“David was a real pro with a smooth delivery and a real nose for the news. Last time I saw him he was living in Windsor and working for CKLW. Sad that we lost track of each other over the years but I do know that Joe (Petrolo) was able to reach David a few years back and communicate good wishes to him."
Following up on that, Joe Petrolo tells Sky Studio, “I was lucky that the Sault College journalism program connected me with Dave Gazer. He was more than just a classmate. We both landed jobs at the CKCY newsroom but he had much more confidence than I did behind the mic.
“He was a major influence as I navigated my way through those early days as a cub reporter. He taught me how to write with punch and deliver with punch. I will never forget his advice when reading a newscast. "Make sure you own the audience for those five minutes.” He sure could with that booming voice.
“Dave was destined for a bigger market and it wasn't long before CKLW (The Big 8) in Windsor came calling. He returned after his successful interview with legendary CKLW News Director Byron McGregor and kept practicing 'Motor City Weather' with his hand cupped behind his ear.
“After losing touch for decades I was able to connect with Dave through his daughter and despite significant health issues, the Dave Gazer I remember was still there. Our loss is Sky Studio's gain.”
Long-time friends Jan and CKCY’s Ron Robinson spent a lot of time with Dave, and Jan remembers, “Ron would often invite new hires at CKCY to our home, then on Bay Street beside the former Peachy’s, and I cooked for them. David came often – he was sweet and charming, loved being on-air… he was a wonderful person and broadcaster.”
Special announcement::
Benjamin's Park Memorial Chapel - Service Details (benjaminsparkmemorialchapel.ca)-
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In ongoing efforts to make Sky Studio more complete, this issue also acknowledges and adds to our honour roll those who left us years ago:
Jack Anthony was hired by Marcel Lacosse at CKCY on Queen, and had also been at CKRC Winnipeg, CKNW New Westminster and CKEY Toronto. He’d also appeared as a regular on television’s Wayne and Shuster Show in 15 episodes including two of their ‘Super Special’ shows.
Bob Carr was a regular news voice on CKCY but was based in Toronto, where he operated an independent news gathering company, "Newsroom 2.” He was known for many years as "The Gnome of Queen's Park" from where he reported Ontario Legislature stores to as many as 40 radio stations. His stories were offered up or requested by CKCY news staff on local issue if they were part of Legislature discussion, particularly if they involved the Sault MPP.