In September 2015, Gray Television struck a deal that would allow it to grow into the major broadcast media company that it is today. For $442.5 million, Gray agreed to purchase the radio and television assets of multimedia company Schurz Communications. Gray would then spin the radio stations in three deals totaling $16 million.
Today, Schurz is focused on regional broadband companies, through which cable TV services are offered. Now, it is mourning the death of Franklin Dunn Schurz Jr. at the age of 94.
“Family and his family’s business meant the world to Frank,” an obituary shared on Saturday (8/10) said. “He dedicated most of his life to both.”
Most recently, Schurz served as Chairman Emeritus of the Schurz Communications Board of Directors. Headquartered in South Bend and Mishawaka, Ind., Schurz was established in 1872 by his family. Frank Schurz served as CEO from 1982-2007, and previously held various positions within Schurz’s newspaper, television, and radio divisions. Among these was a role at WSBT Radio in South Bend, where he also contributed on-air. His very first job with the family business was as a paperboy for the South Bend Tribune; he went on to serve as its Publisher.
Frank Schurz is the recipient of the NAB Chuck Sherman Award; the AWRT Achievement Award from the American Women in Radio and Television; and the 2014 Indiana Broadcasters Association Lifetime Achievement Award.
Until 2015, the South Bend, Ind.-based company owned some 15 TV stations, in markets ranging from Roanoke-Lynchburg, Va.; and Anchorage to Springfield, Mo.; and Augusta, Ga.
Its radio stations were located in five markets. The Lafayette, Ind., properties were sold to Neuhoff Communications; Rapid City, S.D. properties went to The HomeSlice Group; and stations in South Bend, Ind., and Benton Harbor, Ind., went to Mid-West Family Broadcast Group.
In a statement, the NAB called Mr. Schurz “a visionary broadcaster and a dedicated public servant whose leadership left an indelible mark on our industry. His commitment to quality journalism, community service and the values that define local broadcasting continues to inspire generations of broadcasters. NAB extends our deepest condolences to the Schurz family, his colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
