R.I.P.: Longtime Spokane Radio, TV Personality Bob Briley

Bob Briley

A man near and dear tothe entire Spokane community passed away Monday. Robert "Bob" Briley worked in radio and television in Spokane for nearly 60 years, according to KHQ-TV6.

After college, Bob began his career at KHQ in 1954 by reporting and anchoring on both radio and television. He continued anchoring until 1976, while providing color commentary and play-by-play for the Spokane Indians in the 1960's. Bob's career highlights include covering the Sunshine Mine Disaster in 1972 and announcing the 1980 Winter Olympics figure skating events. While covering figure skating, Bob also witnessed the 'Miracle on Ice' when the U.S. Hockey Team beat the Russians. .

Bob also served in the armed forces. Six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, 18-year-old Briley (without telling his mother) joined the Army Air Corps and became a radio operator on a C-87 transport plane.

After the war, Bob moved back to Spokane and began his first on-air radio job while attending Gonzaga University.

Bob retired from KHQ-TV in 1988 after serving for 35 years as a reporter, photographer, anchor, baseball announcer, and Public Affair Director. His retirement didn't last long. He worked part-time for KHQ, hosting the popular senior show "Prime Timers." In 1992, Bob was inducted into the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences "Silver Circle" for his amazing career.

Bob and his wife Doris recently celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary.