Donald Eugene Wheeler

don-wheeler

Former WUKY general managers Len Press (L) and Don Wheeler (R) share station stories during the WUKY 75th anniversary party in October 2015. (Photo courtesy WUKY)

The KBA extends condolences to the family and friends of Donald Eugene Wheeler, who passed away March 23, 2017, in Lexington at the age of 87.

KBA President/CEO, Henry G. Lackey, expressed his sympathy by saying, “Don was good teacher but moreover a terrific writer. He was a strong motivator for me.”

Don was a longtime journalist and broadcaster and created the Radio/TV Section for the Kentucky Department of Public Information. He also was an editor for the Frankfort State Journal; program director at WSFU-TV in Tallahassee, Florida; co-founder of Central Kentucky Radio Eye; and general manager of WBKY-FM (now WUKY-FM), the public radio station at the University of Kentucky.

While at WBKY-FM, Don supported the fledgling National Public Radio, and one of the first broadcasts of All Things Considered was at WBKY.

Don received the KBA’s Kentucky MIC Hall of Fame Award in 1984. He also was involved in the creation of the Kentucky Sports Radio Network. Don was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

He is survived by three daughters, four grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the American Civil Liberties Union, National Public Radio or the animal rescue group of your choice. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral service.