Ron Heller, longtime Midwest broadcaster and news director, dies

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. — A longtime broadcaster and former news director for KTVO and sister station KHQA for decades has passed away.

Ron Heller, 82, died on Tuesday, Nov. 19, in Kirksville.

Heller was born on Feb. 4, 1942, in Watertown, Wis., graduating from Watertown High School and a broadcast academy in Milwaukee.

Ron dedicated his career to television and radio, working in several cities before coming to Kirksville.

He served as news director for KTVO from 1971 to 1986, and soon after for KHQA from 1986 to 1996.

Ron's passion for storytelling and commitment to integrity left a lasting mark on his colleagues, the young journalists he trained, and the communities he served.

Heller leaves behind four children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Ron's wish was to be cremated, and the family requested that friends and fans watch a local news broadcast in remembrance.