Dave Lee Announces Retirement From WCCO in Minneapolis

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, January 8, 2021

Dave Lee

After 32 years at News/Talk WCCO/Minneapolis, Dave Lee announced his retirement on Friday morning, effective April 30. The award-winning morning news personality spent 32 years at WCCO. His talents also include play-by-play of football, basketball and baseball -- from the high school level, to college, to the major leagues. Lee's career began in Fargo, ND as Program Director and afternoon host at KFGO (Mighty 790) before getting noticed and joining WCCO Radio in 1989.

Lee has helped raise awareness and hundreds of thousands of dollars for the University of Minnesota's Children's hospital, started the Lee scholarship at the University of Minnesota Journalism School, garnered national recognition from The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Big Brothers/Big Sisters (Federated Challenge) and a Military Family Tribute at the Minnesota State Capitol. His fund-raising efforts for Bolder Options in Minneapolis, a program for youth mentoring, recently recognized him with the Alan and Diane page award.

Through his entire career, Lee has earned the top honors in the media industry, including the Edward R. Murrow Award, numerous awards from the Associated Press and a nomination for the national Marconi Award. He's also been recognized for his play-by-play on radio and on TV, including 3 Emmy Awards.

"We're going to miss Dave Lee. He has had the responsibility of picking up for legends he's replaced. Now we have to replace the legend of Dave Lee which feels impossible as we today celebrate his years of entertaining and informing us on WCCO. Over the next few months, we'll have a chance to hear more stories and memories before he signs off for good, but for now it's thank you, thank you, thank you, Dave Lee," said Market Manager Shannon Knoepke.