Ronald Lee Gregory

Fort Wayne’s Radio Legend and Voice of Connection Dead at Age 77

On August 22, 2025, Fort Wayne, Indiana, bid farewell to Ronald Lee Gregory, a radio icon whose warm voice, quick wit, and genuine love for broadcasting touched countless lives. Passing at age 77, Gregory left behind a 45-year legacy that defined Midwest radio. Known for his versatility—wearing hats as a host, mentor, ham radio enthusiast, and station owner—Gregory’s journey from a college DJ to a beloved “WOWO Legend” is a testament to his enduring impact. This tribute, woven with stories from radio insiders, celebrates his life, career, and the community he built.

A Quiet Beginning, A Loud Passion

Born in 1948, Ronald Lee Gregory’s early life remains largely private, a reflection of the humility that marked his personal demeanor. While details about his childhood home or family are sparse, his radio journey began at the University of Maryland, where he joined the student-run station WMUC in 1967. There, amidst the cultural shifts of the late 1960s, Gregory discovered his knack for engaging listeners, blending humor and relatability in a medium that was both intimate and far-reaching. His time at WMUC sparked a passion that would carry him to Fort Wayne and beyond, shaping a career that resonated across generations.

The Voice of WOWO and Beyond

Gregory’s defining moment came in March 1973 when he joined WOWO-AM, a 50,000-watt clear-channel station in Fort Wayne that blanketed 28 states and parts of Canada. As an afternoon and evening host, he crafted a style that was uniquely his own: a mix of clever puns, self-deprecating humor, and heartfelt listener interaction. Whether it was a trucker tuning in from a distant highway or a family gathered around the kitchen radio, Gregory’s voice felt like home. His long tenure at WOWO, spanning the 1970s and 1980s with a return in the late 1980s, earned him the title of Fort Wayne’s “Radio Ambassador for the Summit City.”

His career wasn’t limited to WOWO. In the early 2000s, Gregory joined WGL-FM (Sunny 106) in Fort Wayne, adapting seamlessly to music-driven programming after a brief hiatus. In the mid-1980s, he ventured into station ownership, though specific details about the station’s name or location remain elusive, underscoring his entrepreneurial spirit. Beyond traditional radio, Gregory was a dedicated ham radio operator under the call sign W9RGM, connecting with locals through the Fort Wayne Radio Club. A member of Mensa, he brought intellectual sharpness to his work but always prioritized accessibility, making listeners feel like friends.

Gregory’s career highs were numerous. His WOWO shows in the 1970s and 1980s, blending top hits, local news, and listener calls, built a devoted following. His community presence—at events or casual encounters around town—made him a Fort Wayne fixture. Listeners recall his approachable charm, often punctuated by a well-timed quip, which kept WOWO relevant during an era of industry upheaval.

Tributes from the Radio Brotherhood

Gregory’s influence extended deeply into the radio community, as colleagues shared heartfelt stories after his passing. Chris Roberts, who started at WOWO alongside Gregory in 1973, recalls his universal appeal. “Ron had fans in every corner of our signal’s reach,” Roberts said. “His bad jokes and clever witticisms still echo in my mind.” Having shared studio time in WOWO’s downtown Fort Wayne days, Roberts admired Gregory’s ability to keep things light with humor that never punched down.

Brian Ford, now WOWO’s news director, met Gregory as a high school student with radio dreams. “He took time to ask about my goals, learning I wanted to be a DJ at WOWO,” Ford shared. “His kindness, professionalism, and that smooth delivery set a standard we still chase.” Ford’s story highlights Gregory’s mentorship, a role he embraced wholeheartedly.

Zack Skyler, a young broadcaster mentored by Gregory, posted, “He guided me when I was starting out at WOWO’s downtown studio—truly a great guy, RIP.” Doug Fisher, who worked night shifts with Gregory in the 1970s, said, “Ron owned evening pop radio with that 50kw signal. Just an all-around good human.” Journalist Brien McElhatten, who interviewed Gregory, recalled his storytelling: “He loved Fort Wayne and radio deeply. His ham radio chats were full of stories that kept you hooked.”

A Private Life, A Public Family

Living alone in a Fort Wayne apartment complex since the 1970s, Ronald Lee Gregory had no immediate family in the area at the time of his death. His true family was the radio community—colleagues, listeners, and ham radio enthusiasts who cherished his presence. Following his passing, WOWO’s *Fort Wayne’s Morning News* with Kayla Blakeslee aired listener tributes, ensuring his voice lives on. His ham radio activities, under the call sign W9RGM, further connected him to Fort Wayne’s tight-knit community of communicators.

A Legacy That Endures

In an industry shaped by change, Ronald Lee Gregory was a constant—a witty storyteller, generous mentor, and community anchor. From his WMUC beginnings to his WOWO stardom, he showed radio’s power to unite and uplift. The hats he wore—host, owner, ham operator, mentor—reflect a life dedicated to connection. As Fort Wayne mourns, we celebrate his legacy. Rest in peace, Ron—your signal remains strong.