R.I.P.: Lou Mellini, Colorado Springs Radio Broadcaster

(1941-2023)

Lou Mellini, a longtime fixture in Colorado Springs’ broadcast, business and service communities, has died.

A former vice president and general manager for FM radio stations KILO and KXRP who was also involved in numerous civic and charitable causes, Mellini passed away early Monday after a short illness, according to his wife, Laura. He was 82.

A native of Brooklyn, N.Y., Mellini moved to Colorado Springs in 1978 after falling in love with the city during a brief visit to the Air Force Academy. Over the ensuing 45 years, his love for the community never waned, according to The Gazette.

Mellini, who came from a marketing background, began working in sales at KRDO’s two radio stations before moving to KILO as sales manager in 1980. He was promoted to general manager in 1985. In 1989, he left to become president and CEO of the Broadcast Radio Network, where he was instrumental in establishing 85 radio station affiliates across the U.S. 

In 1992, Mellini returned to KILO as vice president/general manager and, when the station purchased KRXP in 1999, he oversaw operations for both stations.