Longtime WISR Morning Show host and on-air personality Dave Malarkey has died.
Malarkey passed away last weekend in Butler at the age of 78.
The Parker native began his career at WISR in 1973 after graduating from Penn State University. He soon became known as one of Butler’s most trusted and beloved voices.
Malarkey would then spend the next half-century helping listeners in Butler start their morning. Whether it was time and temperature, riveting political stories, or a charming anecdote, the WISR audience could always rely on Dave to begin their mornings with a smile.
Malarkey also spent a near-two decade run as host of It’s Your Turn, WISR’s public affairs program. In his never-ending quest for knowledge, Malarkey engaged in a wide range of conversations with local leaders, politicians, and talked with nearly every organizer of local non-profit events. He also gave listeners a chance to weigh-in the day’s topics as It’s Your Turn served as Butler’s only live call-in talk show.
As the media landscape rapidly changed over his 52-year career, Malarkey consistently cited radio as his favorite form of mass communication.
“Radio is the most intimate form of media,” Malarkey said. “It requires you to use your imagination.”
While known for his radio career, Malarkey was also a well-known local theater player. His numerous performances with the Butler Little Theater, Musical Theater Guild, and more showcased his penchant for entertaining audiences.
Malarkey also saluted his Irish-roots by his love of golf and a pint of Guinness.
Malarkey retired from WISR in February of this year citing health reasons.
His voice was unmistakable, as was his kindness to others. While some Butler residents may never have met Dave in-person, they felt like they knew him personally. He will be remembered for his professionalism, insight, curiosity, and compassion.
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