Local broadcasting great passes away

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The foundation of television news broadcasting was built by many dedicated and persistent journalists. In Terre Haute, the pioneer of television news broadcasters fell on the shoulders of Harry Frey.

Harry began his broadcasting career in radio as a singer on WBOW while he was a student in Garfield High School. Little did anyone know that he would become the Dean of Terre Haute TV News Broadcasters. Harry made his radio news debut on March 28, 1953, when three railroad cars loaded with military munitions exploded at Lewis, Indiana.

Harry Frey worked at other radio stations in the Terre Haute market and on Dec. 17, 1962 Harry made his transition from radio to television and dominated the TV airwaves for the next 20 years.

Harry served as WTHI TV’s main anchor for the 6 p.m. and late newscasts and eventually became news director. The audience liked him, he produced ratings and advertisers liked him. Everyone liked Harry Frey and the way he presented the news. He knew the territory. He knew the location of the middle of the road. He was fair, non-controversial. He brought stability for 20 years. Harry Frey told it like it was before it was a cliché.

His run on TV ended August 19, 1982.

After television, Harry Frey had yet another career. He worked in public service as Administrative Assistant for the honorable Pete Chalos, Mayor of Terre Haute. Harry served another 12 years with the mayor and retired in 1994.

Harry Frey's influence in broadcasting, radio, television, entertainment, sales and business was remarkable.

Visitation for Harry Frey is Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Callahan Hughes Funeral Home in Terre Haute. Funeral services are set for Thursday at 10 a.m.