R.I.P.: Rick Jensen, Longtime Wisconsin Radio Professional

Eric Jugensen (aka Rick Jensen) and Willie

Eric Jurgensen, a cherished figure in Wisconsin radio known professionally as “Rick Jensen,” passed away on April 29, 2025, at Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee due to complications from a stroke. 

At 61, Jurgensen leaves behind a remarkable legacy defined by his lifelong passion for broadcasting, a career that spanned over three decades and touched countless listeners across the state.

Jurgensen’s love for media and storytelling emerged early. He pursued journalism at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he honed his skills and rose to the prestigious role of editor at The Daily Cardinal, the university’s student newspaper. His time at UW-Madison not only sharpened his editorial acumen but also ignited a passion for broadcasting that would define his career.

Radio's Rick Jensen

In 1994, Jurgensen joined Magnum Radio, a Wisconsin-based media company, where he found his true calling. Over the next 31 years, he became a cornerstone of the organization, serving in multiple roles that showcased his versatility and dedication. As news director, he brought rigor and clarity to local reporting; as operations manager, he ensured seamless station functionality; and as group news director for Magnum Media, he oversaw news operations across multiple stations, shaping the company’s journalistic standards. 

Beyond the newsroom, Jurgensen’s charismatic presence as a disk jockey made him a beloved figure at community events, from weddings to festivals, where his music selections and engaging banter lit up gatherings.

“His articulate, commanding voice will be missed over many Wisconsin airways,” his obituary poignantly noted, capturing the impact of his resonant delivery and warm personality on listeners throughout the region.

Jurgensen’s work at Magnum Radio, which operates several stations across Wisconsin, including in markets like West Bend, Beaver Dam, and Watertown, made him a household name for many.