Radio legend Bob Brooks passes away at 89
IOWA CITY, Iowa – Saturday saw the passing of a legend as radio icon Bob Brooks died at the age of 89.
A Cedar Rapids native and a University of Iowa graduate, Brooks had career in broadcasting that spanned seven decades. He worked in radio and television for KCRG in Cedar Rapids, handling play-by-play for the Hawkeyes and doing daily sports reports for several Cedar Rapids radio stations, most recently at KMRY.
Brooks became sort of a Hawkeye historian in his later years. He was a great story teller whose experiences dated back to the days of Nile Kinnick and the Ironmen in 1939.
Brooks had a wealth of knowledge with regard to facts and important dates in the history of Hawkeye athletics. All you had to do was ask and Brooks would gladly share a piece of Hawkeye history based on his 57 years on the beat.
He cherished Kinnick’s legacy and considered him a hero. Brooks was so fond of Kinnick that he carried a tape of Kinnick’s 1939 Heisman Trophy acceptance speech with him at all times.
Brooks became known for using a giant tape recorder and rarely did you see him not wearing a tie and blazer. He was dapper, devoted and set in his ways.
Brooks is a member of the Kinnick Stadium media “Wall of Fame” and was recognized by the UI as an honorary letterman.
Brooks was also a favorite among the Iowa fans and the Iowa coaches.
Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz made it a point to acknowledge Brooks’ presence at press conferences out of respect. They often would make small talk until the press conference started.
Details regarding a memorial service will be announced at a later date.