Art Bell, W6OBB internationally known radio host and holder of a three different call signs in the U.S. and Manila has become a SK at the age of 72. Art is the founder and first host of a late night radio program called "Coast to Coast AM" that was heard on radio stations throughout North America around the world. Art was a great advocate for the hobby and often talked about ham radio to his audience on the program. He will be missed by many of us who have fond memories of late night entertainment and listening to his paranormal based program. His distinctive voice will not be heard again except in recordings. N. Mike Foght, WB8MF
This is sad news. I recently spoke with another ham from Pahrump and he thought Art was doing OK. He will be missed. He kept me entertained on many a slow graveyard shift. He also piqued my interest in getting my ham license as he spoke of it often. .-. .. .--. Art.
Appears that an autopsy is still scheduled but he suffered from COPD in later years (the cigarette in the photo may be a hint).
Reportedly in his home, autopsy to be performed, but in 2016 had pneumonia and COPD, for which the iconic posed photo offers a good explanation. Most intriguing is the paranormal conspiracy theory supportive Friday 13th departure Silent on our bands but perhaps still keying elsewhere, in QSO with Andy Kaufman! John, WØPV
Sad, thanks for posting the SK notice. I was stationed @ Nellis for years, Art was a fixture on the radio.
I enjoyed Art Bell. Some of the guests on his shows were a little "out there" but it was fun to listen to in the middle of the night. I don't recall ever working him on the ham bands. 73, Art
Aloha Oe Art Bell Some very fascinating and revealing stories on his program. Some of his 20 year old programs are still replayed on several stations. G3SEA/KH6
Listened to Art while working graveyard (25+ years.) Even some of the people I arrested & took to jail recognized his voice on the AM radio. Extremely sad how his wife died a few years back, with him there, and could do nothing to help her, (asthma attack.) Rest in Peace OM, maybe work you on 80M again in the great beyond. 73, Dave
I'm really sad to hear of his passing. Quite a number of times over the years we spoke on the telephone about radio wave propagation and anthropogenic climate change. He was a very smart man and always interested in science.
