Remembering Clark Weber

• Legendary Chicago radio personality Clark Weber, who made his name as a Top 40 disc jockey in the ’60s and PD of the iconic WLS, followed by decades as a talk show host, died Saturday, March 7 in Evanston, IL after a battle with cancer. He was 89.

As lovingly chronicled by Chicago media journalist Robert Feder, Weber, beloved by fans as “Mother Weber’s Oldest Son,” carved out an impressive career as a Chicago air personality, talk show host and advertising executive. Early radio gigs in Waukesha, West Bend and Milwaukee led to a life-changing call from WLS in 1961, where he climbed the ladder from overnights to afternoons to mornings, and eventually, Program Director. In 1965 Weber had the honor of introducing the Beatles on stage at Comiskey Park. In 1969 he crossed the street to Top 40 WCFL, and then to WMAQ in 1971. Two years later, at the age of 43 and feeling he was too old to keep spinning records, Weber transitioned to Talk radio at WIND 560-AM, where he stayed for 13 years, followed by a decade at WJJD and five more years at WAIT.

Weber later launched Clark Weber Associates, an advertising consulting firm targeting what he called the underserved market of senior citizens. Just before he retired in 2015 Weber was inducted in the Illinois Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame. Earlier he won the Golden Windy Award from the Radio Broadcasters of Chicagoland and the Broadcast Advertising Club Chicago.

“Clark was quick-witted, warm and smooth — a pro’s pro, whether it was rock and roll or news talk,” said Bob Sirott, a former longtime colleague and current morning host atWGN-AM. “He set the bar high on the air and more importantly, off the air as a mentor, counselor, friend and cheerleader for those lucky enough to get to know him. Mother Weber certainly raised a gentleman.” Funeral arrangements are pending.