Bernie Dittman Passes Away

Bernie Dittman

Everyone at ALL ACCESS is very saddened to report the passing of legendary independent broadcaster BERNIE DITTMAN at the age of 79 following a short but serious illness (10/25). He is survived by his wife, JUDY, and three daughters, BETSEY, STEPHANIE and MARSHA.

WABB PD JAMMER told ALL ACCESS, "BERNIE was a loving, caring person who loved both of his families: JUDY, his wife, and his daughters, BETSEY, STEPHANIE, and MARSHA -- and his stepson of sorts named 'WABB.' I've worked in radio for almost 20 years now and have never met a person who knew how to win like he has. It must be something in the DITTMANS' blood to know how to always be great at what they do."

ALL ACCESS President & Publisher JOEL DENVER commented, "BERNIE bought WABB-A/MOBILE in 1959 and in 1973 put WABB-F on the air, which started as a Rock station but became one of the truly great Top 40 stations in the SOUTHEAST.

"BERNIE was unwavering in his personal commitments to his company to remain independently owned, turning down huge offers from CLEAR CHANNEL, CUMULUS, and many more over the years. He was a true pioneer in radio broadcasting and was so instrumental in the careers of SCOTT SHANNON, RANDY LANE, LESLIE FRAM, MARK ST. JOHN, LEE CHESNUT, WAYNE COY, DUSTY HAYES, PAUL FULLER, BILL EVANS, and so many more.

"In 2005 he was named the 'Broadcaster Of The Year' by the ALABAMA BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION, an honor he truly deserved. But the best honor for BERNIE was the friendship and love of his friends and most of all his family. I was very proud of my friendship with him. We'll truly miss you, BERNIE, and all that you stood for."

DITTMAN BROADCASTING will continue onward, as BETSEY DITTMAN will relocate from CHICAGO to MOBILE to assume the operations of the company.

JAMMER added, "This will mark the third generation of DITTMANS who will run these stations. I intend to work as closely with BETSEY DITTMAN as I did BERNIE day in and day out, as I'm sure the entire industry will also. The DITTMAN family and WABB will always remember how BERNIE has blessed us over the years and what still needs to be done in the future."

Funeral services will be held tomorrow (10/27) at RADNEY FUNERAL HOME, 3155 Dauphin St., MOBILE, AL; (251)479-4547. Visitation is from 11a-1p, and graveside service is at 2p.

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