BOSTON (AP) — Dave Maynard, a Boston radio and television personality for nearly five decades, has died. He was 82.
Maynard's death was announced yesterday by WBZ-TV and WBZ-AM radio, where he hosted long-running programs. WBZ-AM aired an interview with Maynard's son, Mike, who said his father died in Citrus Hills, Fla., after a long battle with Parkinson's disease.
Maynard hosted an amateur talent show on WBZ-TV for 21 years beginning in 1965. He began hosting WBZ-AM's morning show in 1980. Maynard also originated the station's "Phantom Gourmet" show, and wrote three cookbooks. He retired in 1991.
Gary LaPierre, who retired from WBZ-AM's morning anchor job in 2006 after four decades at the station, said in an on-air interview with WBZ Thursday night, "We've lost a good friend here in the business and I've lost a teacher, a mentor and a friend in Dave Maynard."
Longtime WBZ sportscaster Gil Santos, known as the voice of the New England Patriots, worked with both men for decades before retiring in 2009. He also recalled Maynard's humor and generosity. "It wasn't work; we were just having fun," he told WBZ.
Maynard was inducted into the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2009.
He was known for his fundraising campaigns for Children's Hospital in Boston and medical charities.
The Larchmont, N.Y., native had degrees from Emerson College and Boston University, where he taught 17 years.
He is survived by his wife, six children and nine grandchildren.
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