MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — A highly-respected former WCCO Radio news anchor and editor, Rich Holter, has died at age 72. He had numerous health problems in recent years.

Holter delivered news to radio audiences in Minnesota for more than three decades including several years at WCCO Radio. He was well known to WCCO listeners not only for his newscasts but for his concise coverage of weather. He often was heard during weather emergencies such as tornadoes and snowstorms.

“He was a bulldog in the newsroom but with a big heart,” said WCCO morning editor Steve Murphy.

“He was my mentor when I first came here years ago. I learned so much from him and always had the highest regard for Rich as a newsman and person,” said WCCO reporter Bruce Hagevik.

WCCO meteorologist Mike Lynch said Holter was always calm during emergencies.

NewsRadio 830 WCCO’s Steve Murphy Reports

Holter held top local and national positions with the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and received the union’s highest award, the George Heller Memorial Award.

He also spent three years in the U.S. Army. Holter is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sandra, and three grown children.