For those in the cities of Ellsworth, Bangor and Bar Harbor, Maine, two generations of FM radio listeners have come to know such stations as “KISS FM” and “Star 97.7.” These stations are largely tied to a woman who co-founded KISS in 1982 and, later, co-owned Star in addition to four other radio stations serving these communities.
Now, Natalie Knox is being honored, and mourned, as the longtime local radio industry figure has lost her battle with cancer.
Knox fought a lengthy battle against multiple myeloma. She was 68 years of age.
Knox graduated from Searsport District High School in 1972, and went on to attend the University of Maine, receiving a bachelor’s degree in education. In 1982, Knox co-founded WKSQ (“KISS”), and subsequently became co-owner of five more radio stations over the years, including WNSX, branded as “Star.”
She was very active in local community affairs, and served on the board of trustees for Maine Coast Memorial Hospital, the board of directors of Woodlawn Museum and the Hancock County SPCA. Knox served what is believed to be the greatest number of years on the board of the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce, including a term as President.
Donations in Knox’s memory may be made to Maine Compassion Trust, a charitable organization established by her and friend Jennifer Skiff. Visiting hours will be held at Jordan-Fernald, 113 Franklin St. in Ellsworth, Me., on June 27 from 4pm-6pm. A funeral service will be held on June 28 at Searsport First Congregational Church, starting at 11am.
Interment will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery, in Searsport, Me., following the service.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.jordanfernald.com.
