“Brother Bill” Gable Signs Off

• Sad news was delivered to us by “Radio’s Best Friend,” Art Vuolo, who reported the passing of yet another great Detroit radio personality — “Brother Bill” Gable, known and loved for his tenure during the golden era of the legendary CKLW (The Big 8)/Detroit and other stations, died Wednesday evening, Sept. 18 after a battle with COPD, a chronic lung disorder. He was only 69 years old.

This vintage photo was posted on Facebook by Bill Hennes, former PD of CKLW, who graciously allowed us to use it here, explaining he hired Gable away from his part-time gig at KHJ/Los Angeles. The photo was taken circa 1975, when Hennes had a young Elton John come in that day to do afternoon drive as “EJ The DJ.”

Standing, (l-r): the legendary Rosalie Trombley, Bill Gable, Ted Richards and Pat Holiday. Down in front, (l-r): Bob Moody, Elton John and “Wild Willy” Hennes.

As is his custom following the passing of notable air personalities, Art immediately retreated to his state-of-the-art editing suite, sifted through his extensive video footage and compiled this tribute to “Brother Bill.”