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Submitted: 4/25/10 • Approved: 4/26/10 • Last Updated: 8/14/15 • R53284-G53284-S3
Ray Loftesness "Lofty" was a popular regional radio and television personality for over fifty years. Working for KSOO Radio, KSOO Television, KELO Radio and KELO Television. He is most noted for his beloved regional Christmas radio show which aired for over fifty years called "Holiday Inn". KELO Radio continued to carry the program for many years after his death, using many of the story segments Ray "Lofty" recorded before his sudden death in 1991 from pancreatic cancer. KELO continues to carry a version of the program each year between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
He was one of the first news anchors in the region when television first came to the Dakotas, working for KSOO television - an NBC affiliate. During this time, he hosted a very popular local talk show called "Party Line" with Sylvia Henkin.
Ray was instrumental in the founding of the Sioux Falls Community Playhouse and was also regional chairman of the Washington National Cathedral Association for many years.
Ray is also noted for his long time association with famous band and chorus leader Fred Waring.
Contributed on 4/25/10 by 9katz
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Record #: 53284