The radio world has lost a veteran with the death of longtime radio executive Norman Feuer. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 19th at 88 year old after a three-year battle with dementia.
What We Know: Feuer worked in advertising, marketing and management, with multiple successful tenures as a station owner. He began in research at New York ad agencies before moving into radio sales at CBS Radio Spot Sales and Katz Radio. In 1971, he became vice president and general manager of WLYF-FM in Miami and WLAK-FM in Chicago. He later owned Force Communications, overseeing KBZT-FM in San Diego. As president of Viacom Radio from 1983 to 1985, he oversaw eight stations in six markets. During that time, New York country station WKHK became adult contemporary WLTW, one of the nation’s most profitable stations. Feuer then held senior roles at Noble Broadcast Group and Pourtales Radio Partnership. From 1995 to 1999, he served as president and CEO of Triathlon Broadcasting. The company grew to 32 stations before Capstar acquired it for $200 million. From 1999 to 2003, he was COO of First Media Works, which helped about 1,500 radio stations build their digital presence. Later in his career, he served as market manager for Clear Channel Radio in Jacksonville.
What They Said: “Norman had a way of connecting with people from all walks of life, treating everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their position or circumstances.” -Feuer family
What Remains Unclear: The obituary doesn’t say whether stations he led plan any tributes. Likewise, Additional details surrounding his death, such as funeral arrangements, were not made public.
What It Means: Feuer’s death marks the loss of a veteran radio executive whose leadership spanned several decades. His career reflects an era when experienced broadcasters played a central role in station management, programming and ownership changes. His legacy also serves as a reminder of the importance of mentorship and developing future leaders as radio evolves. He’s survived by his children, Justin, Brian, and Melinda, and two grandsons, Justin and Jesse.
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