The world of broadcasting mourns the loss of Doug Lund, a beloved member of the South Dakota Broadcasting Hall of Fame and a seasoned nightly newscast co-anchor, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 78. Lund’s distinguished career spanned decades, during which his voice became synonymous with trust and reliability for viewers across KELOLAND. His legacy as a pioneering broadcaster and cherished community figure leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
Born and raised in Volga, South Dakota, Lund’s journey into broadcasting began at a young age, fueled by a deep-seated passion for storytelling and a desire to connect with audiences through the emerging medium of television. Reflecting on his childhood, Lund recalled the excitement of witnessing the advent of television in his hometown in the early 1950s. This transformative moment ignited his lifelong fascination with the power of the airwaves. Little did he know then that he would become a household name in South Dakota and beyond.
Joining KELO-TV as an announcer in 1974, Lund quickly made his mark with his distinctive voice and natural charisma. While initially hired for voiceover work, Lund’s talent and dedication soon caught the attention of station executives, leading to his transition to the anchor desk. In 1975, he became a news co-anchor alongside Steve Hemmingsen, marking the beginning of a legendary partnership that would define KELO-TV’s news coverage for years.
Despite his professional success, Lund remained humble, recalling his early days in the anchor chair with a mixture of nerves and excitement. The transition from behind-the-scenes voice work to the forefront of nightly newscasts was a momentous occasion for Lund, who approached each broadcast with a sense of duty and responsibility to his viewers. Over the years, his calm demeanour and reassuring presence endeared him to audiences, earning their trust and respect.
Throughout his three decades in the newsroom, Lund witnessed the evolution of broadcast technology, from the era of film and videotape to the digital age and the rise of the internet. Despite the seismic shifts in the industry, Lund remained steadfast in his commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence, embracing change while staying true to the core principles of honest reporting and community service.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Lund was known for his warmth and generosity, both on and off the air. His genuine concern for the well-being of others and his dedication to serving the community earned him the admiration of colleagues and viewers alike. Whether reporting on local events or lending his voice to charitable causes, Lund’s impact extended far beyond the confines of the newsroom.
As news of Lund’s passing spread, tributes poured in from across the broadcasting community and beyond, with colleagues, friends, and viewers alike expressing their gratitude for his contributions to journalism and his enduring legacy of excellence. Steve Hemmingsen, Lund’s longtime co-anchor and friend, remembered him as a consummate professional and a true gentleman. “Doug’s passion for storytelling and unwavering dedication to his craft inspired us all. He will be deeply missed.”
In retirement, Lund remained an active community member, devoting his time to family, hobbies, and philanthropic endeavours. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the memories he created. As South Dakota bids farewell to one of its most beloved broadcasters, we celebrate Doug Lund’s remarkable life and the enduring impact of his legacy. Though he may no longer grace our screens, his voice will echo in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, Doug Lund. You will be dearly missed, but your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing you.
