GREEN BAY, WI (Midwest Communications) – Duke Wright, President and Chief Executive Officer of Midwest Communications Inc. in Wausau/Green Bay, Wisconsin, passed away on December 21, 2022 at the age of 83 of natural causes. He was surrounded by loved ones in his final days.
During his career, Duke, born Duey Edward Wright Jr., built Midwest Communications into one of the largest privately owned, family-operated radio operating companies in the United States, with over 80 stations in 9 states.
Duke’s love of the broadcasting industry began at age 15, when he hosted a live music program on WSAU TV in his hometown of Wausau. Later, a talented lifelong musician, he ultimately made the decision to pursue a career in radio broadcasting over music, a decision he would later say, “seemed to end up turning out pretty well”.
A pioneer in radio, Duke recognized and implemented innovative changes that would later prove to have major impacts on the industry. The first was when he took a chance on a brand new format created in the 1950s, Rock and Roll. In 1958, along with his parents, Duke founded WRIG Inc. in Wausau, Wisconsin, purchasing a local AM radio station. The station signed on as “Big WRIG” 1400, playing the new format, today’s CHR.
Later in 1964, believing that FM radio would one day become the dominant radio medium, Duke acquired a construction permit to build his second radio station, 101.9, WRIG FM.
In 1971, Duke founded another company, this time his own, Midwest Communications Inc., building WROE FM in Appleton, Wisconsin. Under his leadership, Midwest Communications successfully completed over 16 acquisitions, becoming the company that it is today. It was Duke’s vision to provide communities with the best programming and the best technical facilities, led by the best broadcasters. He believed in the importance of being “live and local” and radio’s unique characteristic to provide companionship to its listeners.
Three of Duke’s four children, Mary Kay, Michael, and Jeffrey Wright, are now leading the company. Duke was always proud of the many people who have worked at Midwest Communications, including not only his children but also all of the creative talents, sales and marketing professionals and business support teams contributing to its success.
Duke served on many national and state broadcasting boards and committees. He was awarded numerous honors during his 68-year career including induction into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Hall of Fame, the Wisconsin Polka Hall of Fame, and the Wisconsin Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Duke was also recognized by Radio INK magazine multiple times as one of “Radio’s 40 Most Powerful People” along with many distinguished peers.
The complete list of Midwest Communications markets and stations can be found at mwcadvertising.com.
Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly.
