SHEBOYGAN — Long-time WHBL morning show host Kelly T. Meyer passed away on Thursday, September 25th after a seven-year hard-fought battle with cancer.
Meyer was born on January 23, 1966 in Manitowoc, the son of the late Harold and Patricia (Kiel) Meyer. He attended Reedsville High School and he went on to further his education at Trans American School of Broadcasting in Wausau. In 1985, he began his radio announcing career at WAUN in Kewaunee. Throughout his career, he also held positions at WNBK in New London, WTRW in Two Rivers, KFWJ in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, and WCUB in Manitowoc. In 2001, he began working at WHBL in Sheboygan where, over the years, he served as their program director, brand manager, developed the Meyer’s Minutes blog, and was the host of Sheboygan’s Morning News with Kelly Meyer. He was very dedicated to his work and deeply appreciated his loyal audience. His faithful listeners were so blessed to have him as part of their morning routine with that comforting, familiar, and trusted voice for the past 24 years. He is missed immensely, with many saying he was the “The voice of Sheboygan”.
Meyer was raised on the family farm in Grimms, where he learned his strong set of values and work ethic. As the second youngest of eight children, he grew up in a home full of love and activities. Large gatherings were held for holidays, and eventually Meyer became known for his famous chili, which he often brought for everyone to enjoy. He was a devoted Minnesota Vikings fan. He was eager to engage in good-natured, knowledgeable conversations regarding the Vikings or any NFL team. Meyer’s favorite pastime was weightlifting and strength training; he spent his afternoons at the gym prior to his cancer diagnosis. Meyer had a great sense of humor, and his laugh was infectious. He was also an avid fan of the Grateful Dead, whose music brought him great joy throughout his life. Meyer’s Christian faith gave him peace and comfort, knowing he would spend eternity in Heaven.
Meyer is survived by his five sisters and one brother, two brothers-in-law, and one sister-in-law: Kathy (Allen) Klingeisen of Reedsville, Judy Rusch of Reedsville, Randy (Nancy) Meyer of Kaukauna, Christie Kane of Green Bay, Lori Kiekhaefer of Sheboygan, and Tracy (William) Zinkel of Brillon. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Patricia Meyer; one sister, Tari Ellen Meyer; and one brother-in-law, Randall Rusch.
A visitation will be held at Ballhorn Chapels Funeral & Cremation Care Center, located 1201 North 8th Street in Downtown Sheboygan on Saturday, October 4th from 9 AM to 12 PM. A funeral service will immediately follow. A private burial will be held at a later date at New St. Mary’s Catholic Church Cemetery in Reedsville, Wisconsin.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice for their care and support during his final days. A very special thank you goes out to our sister, Lori, who was by his side daily, comforting him.
In memory of Meyer, we ask that you remember him as a loving family member, a dedicated professional, and a friend to all who were lucky enough to know him.
Ballhorn Chapels Funeral & Cremation Care Center is assisting the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting our website at ballhornchapels.com.
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