Tributes and Best Wishes to Dave after the major events in his life:

“I feel compelled to add some of the many wishes paid to Dave after his heart attack, when he left for WWJ in Detroit (for one summer before returning to LA/KNX), when he retired, and the tributes after he died. The man was loved by so many. I loved him dearly and will miss him forever.”

- Carolynn Zorn

May 11 & 12, 1995 Comments from co-workers on move to Detroit:

“It has been such an honor to have known you and worked with you. Thanks for making being “on the air” so enjoyable. You’re a “Pro” and I’ve learned so very much from you. Thanks also for your patience. (I think you’re the only anchor who never got mad or even frustrated when I used too much time for a traffic report. I admire and respect your talent and tremendous ability but most of all for your kind heart.” Jill Angel

“I truly enjoyed the intelligence, professionalism, and humor you brought to the mornings when we worked together. You are one of the few true gentlemen I have had the honor of working with. I learned a lot from you.” David Singer

“You’ve been a generous teacher, an always rock-solid, consummate professional, a warm and always welcome voice on the air. You’ve been the heart and soul of KNX for so long that your absence will be very keenly felt for a long time.” Gail Eichenthal

“You have been a pleasure to work with over the years. There are the nervous wrecks in our business, there are the lackadaisical as well. You are the solid, unflappable, steady rock.” Jim Thorton

“My memory of you dates back to the time before we met and Gregg Peterson said, ‘You know, I hired a real nice man today and a real talent too. You’re lucky to find that in one package!’ My sentiments exactly. Go knowing that you are loved and will be fondly remembered by those who are sad to see you go, but happy that our paths crossed.” Jackye

“I have really enjoyed working with you these last 8 years and I’m going to miss you – both on the air and especially in person. I’ll really miss your great wit and sense of humor.” Connie Brown

“I’ve always looked up to you as an “older” brother I never had…now you’re headed for the frozen tundra, taking your consummate professionalism, talent, and experience with you. What a big hole that leaves at KNX! This is a nutsy business, and along the way you happen across damn few people with the spirit, loyalty, dedication, and compassion that you’ve displayed every day I’ve known you. You have no idea how much you’ll be missed. You’ve been a dear friend to me, and my family…and they’re gonna miss you too.” Jack Salvatore

“When ---- I am looking back at all the people I worked with to remember their skills, I will think mostly of you. You have taught me the meaning of ‘cool under pressure’ and ‘stay focused on the job at hand.’” Rich Dolan

“It has been great working with a consummate professional.” Alex Sullivan

“You and I go so far back, pal, and this is so difficult. I have never imagined what KNX would be like without you. You are KNX in ways that no one else is, or could be, again. You are, as was said of A. Conan Doyle, ‘steel true, blade straight,’ a gentleman, a friend, a broadcaster of the old school, with all

the best attributes that implies. I am honored to have known you.” Michael Ambrozini

“As I write this, I am so sad I could cry in my chardonnay. It has been a truly wonderful experience working with you. Not only are you one of the most talented journalists around, you are such a special person. You will be missed every single day. “Kathleen Mendiza

“I stand by my statement ‘the best anchor KNX ever had!’ Laszlo

“Ever since we did the famous space shuttle landing broadcast in January 1986, I thought you were excellent – a consummate professional. It has truly been a pleasure working with you and hearing your great work on the air.” Frank Mottek

“You’re one of the few people in this God-forsaken town whose talent is indirectly proportional to the size of your ego, and you’re a great talent. I really appreciate you being so kind to a lowly newsroom grunt like me.” Yvette

“My first Dave Zorn memory occurred five years ago, when I returned to LA after two smoky days in Santa Barbara covering that big fire. You left a note in my box (handwritten, of course), complimenting me on my coverage. For the new kid on the block, I can’t begin to tell you how much that meant to me. I still have that note, and I will keep it always. I thought, ‘Gee, what a classy thing. They must all be like this here!’ (Hah! How naïve!) To me, you are KNX. As good as it will ever get. I’ve always said to myself, ‘when I grow up, I want to be like Dave.’” Linda Nunez

After heart attack in 2005

Carolynn’s Note: Dave was home helping prepare for possible evacuation due to fires in Oak Park when he couldn’t resist going out and covering the fire and phoning in reports to KNX. He then drove home, parked the car, and walked into the condo and said, “I think I’m having a heart attack, call 911.” The firemen who saved his life were around the corner. As they were wheeling his gurney out the front door KNX called for an update on the fires. I told them he was on his way to the hospital. He received over 100 emails which I printed off daily and brought to the hospital for him to read.

“Haven’t you heard that journalists aren’t supposed to make news, just report it? What a roller coaster you and Carolynn have been on. Please know that my prayers and fondest regards are with you every step of your recovery.” Gail Eichenthal

“Thank you for your update and God certainly is looking after your husband, Carolynn. He is such a good man. His emotion at Columbia Square during that last broadcast was profound. Now on to complete healing and a long life. Please give him my love, concern, and best for steady recovery!” Don

“We were sorry to hear about all your health problems, Dave. You’re too young to have those things happen. We also got word that you’re on the mend. Seems like you grew up with our boys. Take care. speedy recovery.”Aramian’s

“Peace and love – how can I put it without becoming all nostalgic—you are one of my very best friends, for all time.” Don Richardson

“Hey Dave, this might be a bad time to tell you…but there are easier ways to get some time off. The world is a better place with you in it…so stay in it!” Larry

“It’s just not right in the newsroom without you. You have a family that loves you and a bunch of old newseys who feel the same way. We’re all thinking about you.” Kim

“Shocked to hear what happened to you…since I remember waiting to go live for one of my fire updates from Calabasas and heard you in Oak Park. I figured, well, if Dave can go live from near his house, so can I!” Randy Kerdoon

“Good grief. Only one week in the hospital for a serious heart attack? What kind of insurance do you have, anyway?” Harvey Kern

“Dave, I’m glad to hear you are on the road to recovery. I know it won’t be an easy road, but you are a tough Marine….Right? I was in your neighborhood that day covering the fire. I heard you on the air by phone and then you were absent that evening, but I didn’t know why.” Mike Landa

“Please get well. There are so few great, intelligent news voices on the air these days. I guess I don’t have to point out that ZORN is the German word for “anger” or “rage” or “passion”. Use it – to fight back.” Gary

“Hey, I come back from Houston and find out that I almost had another friend check out. What is this ****** If you let that happen, I won’t talk to you. Stop eating those jelly donuts. Semper Fi.” Tom

“Dave, you have been in my thoughts and prayers. You are one of the great pros, and all-time great people that I have ever had the pleasure to listen to, let alone work with. And from my wife,(she’s an ER nurse) she’s amazed at what you’ve come through!” Barry Rhode

“I always heard you had “heart” – you didn’t have to prove it, did you? Take care of that bass voice. I’d like to sing a few more songs with you.” Lefty

And about 100 more emails…..

2006 Retirement Wishes:

“Dave is the best radio news anchor in the country. Period. I have been extremely privileged and extraordinarily lucky to have worked with and learned from him.” After all these years in broadcasting, he still air-checked himself, and still tried to find ways to make himself better. That kind of dedication is unheard of. I will miss his laughter and wise counsel. When Dave left, the heart and soul of the newsroom left with him.” Linda Nunez

“Dave is a truly inspirational man. I worked with him as co-anchor on several occasions and learned a lot from being paired with him. He always maintained a keen sense of humor while approaching the job from a thoroughly professional point of view. His years of experience on the air and behind the scenes served him and his co-workers well. He set a standard for the business that anyone would do well to follow. I miss him a lot and hope he carries similar fond feelings for those of us who remain at KNX”. Tom Haule

“Dave is a signature voice of KNX, both in tone and credibility. I have really enjoyed working with him, and I miss hearing him on this radio station every day.” David

“I’ve known Dave since 1979 when he didn’t hire me at KTAR in Phoenix. We became colleagues when I joined the staff at KNX. Dave is my mentor and my friend. He warned me about coming to work for KNX because of its very ‘male-dominated’ environment, but I wasn’t worried about that because I knew Dave would be there to help me, and he was. There’s been such a giant hole at KNX since Dave’s heart attack last year, but I thank God that he survived the ordeal. Dave’s spirit and will to live is strong. I hate that Dave’s leaving LA, but I wish him and Carolynn all the best.” Diane Taylor-Thompson

Tributes from cards, letters, Facebook postings, and emails after Dave’s death was made public:

“Unlike many of my staff over the years, he never flirted or came-on to any of the women at the station. During the 20 years he worked for me, he was a straight-arrow, trustworthy guy.” Bob Sims

Dave touched so many people. I still can’t believe he is gone. The love story of you and Dave is one for the ages.” Diane Thompson-Taylor

“The word that constantly comes to mind when I think of Dave is ‘dedication.’ He put his heart into what he did in a way that has mystified and eluded me all my life. He passed so gracefully, with dignity, and I trust the world dealt gently with him at the end. He so deserved that.” Mike A.

“Dave, you are so loved and admired. Just the best. RIP: Gail Eichenthal

“He was a caring gentle soul with a wonderful voice, now silenced. Rest in Peace dear friend.” Harvey Ettinger

“It takes an extra effort to stand out on an all-News station, but he certainly did so. Condolences to his family and thank you to Dave for many hours of news over the years. Your efforts are most appreciated.” Michael Wick

“Thank you again for allowing me to share in some of the big man’s final hours, Carolynn. Sunday night was very special to me, since he was still—except for his labored breathing—the same ol’ Dave: quick-witted, alert, warm and smiling. I appreciate the time you gave me to be with him.” Jack Salvatore

“Dave was so influential in my radio career. He helped shape me into the broadcaster I became. I always considered myself lucky to have learned from the best, and felt a deep sense of responsibility to keep up the high standards Dave set for all of us.” Linda Nunez

“I’m terribly sorry to learn of Dave’s death. He was one of the best friends I ever had.” Jon Goodman

“Thanks for letting us know about Dave’s passing. My condolences to you and your family. I was stationed at Station 36 at the time of Dave’s heart attack. I have fond memories of you and Dave coming to the fire house having dinner with us. It was always nice to catch up with you both. Once again, sorry to hear this news about Dave.” Greg Henderson

“I’m very sad to hear of Dave’s passing. As I’m sure you know, Dave and I were best friends at

high school. That friendship continued through college and into our brief Legend City career.” Jack Hanf

“We had such a great time being “The Coppertones” at Legend City so long ago. It was a very special time. Dave and I lost touch with each other after he came back from Vietnam. He has been in my thoughts many times over the years with great memories and greater respect. I am so very sorry for your loss and our loss.” Pat Lebs

“It was with great sorrow that I learned that Dave had passed away. Your separation for so many years, then your re-connection and marriage, is one of the sweetest love stories I have ever known. Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss. Dave and I met as students at West Phoenix High School in 1962. Our stint at Legend City came to an end. I joined the Marines and Dave asked me to drive him to the recruitment office so he could join. We were signed up on what was known as the “buddy system” but I was honorably discharged due to injury. Dave was very understanding and kindhearted. He even said that I still deserved to be called a former Marine – even though I had officially only served 22 days! Rick Mitchell

“Dave was more than a great broadcaster and newsman; he was a gentle and generous mentor to so many of us, and a beloved colleague to all. He had a great sense of humor and an uncanny way of putting everyone at ease, even in the pressure cooker of a newsroom.” Gail Eichenthal

“I’d like to repeat what I emailed before: I enjoyed Dave’s articulate kindness and professionalism at KNX…ok, that’s not what I emailed before. What I said was, THANKS FOR NEVER HAVING BEEN A #metoo CREEP! And I think of Carolynn every time I make a Hershey’s cake after having hers at your birthday. It’s still the best. Like the story of Dave and Carolynn Zorn.” Monica McGarva

“I was shocked and saddened to receive the notice that Dave had passed away. He was a treasured friend for 33 years. I consider it an honor to have known him. I will always remember Dave. He was a special and important friend in my life.” Arnold Shapiro, Academy Award & Emmy Award Winning Producer

“He was one in a trillion –an amazing and delightful human being. We were all profoundly blessed (sic to know him). He had magic which strongly attracted me. We just loved simply being together!” L/Cpl Philip Cushman (USMC)

“I’m sorry to hear about Dave’s passing. I’m truly sorry for your loss. He was a friend with great presence, love and humor. He will be missed.” Doug Stahr USMC

“For Dave Zorn: with respect and admiration. Thanks for your friendship and for the memories.” PFC James Kisor USMC

“I was so sorry to hear of Dave’s’ passing. He is missed by many if not all of those in 2/7 I have contacted.” Tom Miller PFC(E2) USMC Retired

“Carolynn, you and Dave were always so kind to me and we had the opportunity to share time together in LA and down at the anniversary event at MCRD. Dave was a great friend and mentor to me.” Lt. Col.Jerry Broeckert USMC (Ret.)

“I am forever grateful for Dave’s help (in finding and helping secure awards for Tom Wardrop and Frank Lopez) and am proud to have known him.” Peter Amish (USMC)

“My name is Al Kehn and I was Dave’s Platoon Commander with the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines in Vietnam. I got to know Dave well in that he was assigned to the communications center and responsible to me for keeping me informed of all operational messages. Dave worked in primitive conditions and performed his duty very well. I depended on him a lot for security and he never let me down. I believe Dave exhibited leadership traits and had the potential to be a Marine Corps officer.” Al Kehn Col.(Ret.)

“With deepest condolences from friends in the KNX/1070 newsroom. Your husband was loved and respected by his collogues in the newsroom as well beyond. He’ll be missed.” Julie Chin

“I was deeply saddened to learn of Dave’s death. He and I were classmates in Phoenix College and then he was my boss at KTAR. He was a good boss and a good friend. He will be missed.” Diane Kalas

“I am so saddened by the unexpectedly sudden loss of my friend Dave. He was a truly kind and wonderful man and I will miss him dearly.” Dr. Taylor (Ed. Note: our family physician)

“As an account executive I worked with Dave for some dozen or so years, and had never worked with a more professional, easy to get along with newsperson in my entire career. (Which spans a few decades at KNX, KFWB, and KDKA.)” I really liked and respected him. Terry Saidel