Dick Nourse Obituary: Legendary KSL Anchor Dick Nourse Dead at 83
by Swetha P
Updated May 22, 2023
Who was Dick Nourse?
Dick Nourse, born on March 8, 1940, was a notable American television news anchor based in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was best known for his work at KSL 5 Television, where he had a long and successful career. Nourse joined the KSL news team in 1964, initially taking on the role of weekend anchor and reporter. However, his talent and dedication quickly earned him the position of weekday anchor just six months later.
On November 28, 2007, after an impressive 43-year run, Nourse concluded his illustrious career with his final newscast. This tenure as a news anchor set a record in Utah for the longest-serving television news anchor, second only to the late Hal Fishman, whose career spanned 47 years. Prior to his time at KSL, Nourse began his broadcasting journey in Grand Junction, Colorado, where he worked at radio stations KDTA and KREX.
During this period, he pursued his education at Mesa College in Grand Junction and later attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. Nourse's path to becoming a television news anchor in Salt Lake City was not without its challenges. Despite being initially turned down by both KUTV channel 2 and KCPX channel 4, he persisted in his pursuit.
The very next day, Nourse applied at KSL channel 5, located across the street, and was fortunate enough to be hired. Overall, Dick Nourse's career was marked by his unwavering dedication, professionalism, and commitment to delivering accurate news to the people of Salt Lake City. His contributions to the field of journalism and his long-lasting impact on the local broadcasting scene will be remembered for years to come.
Dick Nourse Obituary
We mourn the loss of Dick Nourse, who passed away at the age of 83 on May 18, 2023. Nourse was a beloved figure in the world of broadcasting, having served as the lead anchor at KSL-TV for an impressive 43 years career. Throughout his career, he earned the admiration and respect of viewers, colleagues, and the community he served.
Nourse's dedication and professionalism were evident in his unwavering commitment to delivering reliable news to Utahns. His warm and genuine on-air presence made him a trusted source of information for generations. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Nourse's resilience shone through as a three-time cancer survivor, inspiring many.
During his tenure, Nourse became an integral part of the fabric of the broadcasting industry, leaving a lasting impact on both local and national levels. His contributions to journalism will be remembered, and his absence will be deeply felt. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Nourse's family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all whose lives he touched.
Legendary Ksl Anchor for 43
Dick Nourse, the esteemed news anchor who dedicated 43 years of his life to delivering news on KSL television, has passed away at the age of 83. In 1964, Nourse embarked on a journey from Colorado to Salt Lake City, driving a brand-new '63 Corvair. During a retirement tribute in 2007, Nourse reminisced with co-anchor Bruce Lindsay about parking on Social Hall Avenue, where the city's three TV stations were located at the time.
Within a year of joining KSL, Nourse formed a team and played a pivotal role in the establishment of KDYL-TV (now known as KTVX), Salt Lake City's first television station. This dynamic trio continued their collaboration until 1991 when Nourse's colleagues, James and Welti, retired. From 1979 to 1991, Nourse was paired with various co-anchors, including Lindsay and Shelley Thomas, who alternated in the role.
During Nourse's tenure, there was speculation that he may hold the record for the longest-serving local news anchor, as he surpassed Chris Clark from WTVF in Nashville, who retired after 41 years earlier that year, according to Beth King from the national office of the Society of Professional Journalists. Before his retirement, Nourse shared his battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a form of cancer affecting the lymphatic system, with KSL viewers.
Despite facing this challenging illness, Nourse emerged victorious. Throughout his career, Dick Nourse garnered respect and admiration from both colleagues and viewers alike. His contributions to the field of journalism, his unwavering dedication to delivering reliable news, and his personal strength in overcoming adversity will be remembered as part of his remarkable legacy.
Did Dick Nourse have Cancer?
In 1980, Dick Nourse received the difficult news that he had been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer. He took a temporary leave from his on-air responsibilities and underwent chemotherapy treatment while in the hospital. During this challenging time, Nourse's co-anchor, Shelly Thomas, conducted an interview with him and his doctor to shed light on his health journey.
The prognosis from his doctors was uncertain, but Nourse exhibited incredible strength and resilience, ultimately defeating cancer not just once but twice. In 1996, he faced another battle when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, but he overcame it as well. Throughout his life, Nourse actively participated in fundraising efforts for cancer research, demonstrating his commitment to supporting others who were fighting similar battles.
Nourse faced yet another health setback when he was diagnosed with throat cancer in late 2012. In an interview with competing station KUTV, he revealed that by early 2013, his cancer had entered remission. Despite these health challenges, Nourse remained determined and resilient, continuing to inspire others with his courage and willingness to share his experiences.
His involvement in cancer fundraising and his personal triumphs over the disease serve as a testament to his strength and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. Unfortunately Dick Nourse passed away at the age of 83 on May 18, 2023.
Is Legendary Ksl Anchor Dick Nourse Dead?
Dick Nourse, the highly regarded lead anchor at KSL-TV for 43 years, has sadly passed away at 83. KSL confirmed his death and acknowledged Nourse's remarkable strength as a three-time cancer survivor. His enduring presence in the broadcasting industry and his unwavering dedication to delivering news to the Utah community will be remembered and cherished.
He retired in 2007 after starting his career at KSL-Channel 5 in 1964. During his retirement in 2007, there was speculation that Nourse could have held the record for the longest tenure of any local news anchor, potentially surpassing Chris Clark from WTVF in Nashville, who had retired earlier that year after 41 years, according to Beth King from the Society of Professional Journalists.
Dick Nourse's remarkable career and his warm presence in the lives of Utahns will be remembered with deep appreciation. His resilience in overcoming health challenges and his enduring legacy as a trusted news anchor have left an indelible mark on the broadcasting industry. Nourse leaves behind a lasting legacy and will be deeply missed by colleagues and viewers alike.
Dick Nourse Obituary - FAQs
Dick Nourse worked as the lead anchor at KSL-TV for 43 years.
Yes, Dick Nourse was a three-time cancer survivor.
Dick Nourse battled Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, prostate cancer, and throat cancer.
Dick Nourse passed away on May 18, 2023.
Dick Nourse was 83 years old at the time of his death.