A Minnesota broadcaster responsible for stations heard from South Dakota to Wisconsin and far northern Minnesota has died.
Minnesota Valley Broadcasting and Radio Mankato CEO John Linder died Friday morning at the age of 63 after a nine-month, hard-fought battle with cancer.
The Linder family has been in the radio business in Mankato since 1950. Linder spent his entire career in radio and leaves a legacy in broadcasting across the Midwest.
Linder had interest in several radio groups, including locally owned and operated Radio Mankato, which is home to KTOE, Minnesota 93, Hot 96.7, Oldies 100.5, KRRW, KXLP, and The Fan.
“He will be remembered for his large heart, his concern for everyone around him, and his kind spirit,” Linder’s obit read. “He combined these qualities with a business savvy and a willingness to take risks. John knew what was important—and what was not.”
“He loved working with his radio friends to build stations that serve their communities. His employees were like family to him.”
A celebration of Linder’s life will be held at the Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery at 1179 East Pearl Street, Kasota, Minnesota, on Oct. 1 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. with a time for remembrances starting at 3 p.m.
