ID Radio: Kelly Klaas To Retire From KLIX Twin Falls

Kelly Klaas

Radio Talk personality Kelly Klaas is retiring after more than 45 years as a local radio broadcaster.

The Magic Valley native said he wanted to read news from an early age. “Walter Cronkite was my idol when I was like 12 years old.”

As for going with radio instead, he said, “It was just kind of one of those inner feelings when you hear people on the radio and think, ‘Gee, I think I could do that.’”

Notable moments in Klass’ career include live reporting on Evel Knievel’s attempt to jump the Snake River Canyon in 1974, having Wolfman Jack on his show, meeting President Reagan a couple of times and broadcasting news of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Kelley’s delivery in such crises is reassuring, said Janice Degner, general manager for Townsquare Media Twin Falls.

“If people in the Magic Valley wanted to know what was happening, they listened to Kelly Klaas. I wish him the very best in his retirement. He will be missed.”

Klass’ last day on the air will be Dec. 31. A nationwide search is underway to find his successor at KLIX 1310 AM.

Klaas started his career as a Top 40 DJ in 1969 at KEEP.

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