Spencer, IA (KICD) — The Spencer Radio Group is mourning the loss of our friend and former station owner, Bill Sanders, who passed away Sunday at the age of 77.

As a young child, Bill grew up at KICD, while his father, Ben Sanders, owned and operated the radio station for 36 years. Several years later, he purchased the station from his father and was the owner for 18 years. KICD was owned by the Sanders family for a total of 54 years.

We interviewed Mr. Sanders 5 years ago during KICD AM’s 75th anniversary. He said he was most proud of the staff:

Throughout his career, Sanders served on several boards and committees. One of them being the Iowa Broadcasters Association. Sue Toma worked for the IBA for several years and said Bill enjoyed mentoring the younger generation:

Toma said Sanders was proud to call northwest Iowa home:

Bill Sanders served as President of the IBA; as well as Chairman of the National Association of Broadcasters and the National Association of Farm Broadcasters. He also served on the Advisory Board to the Associated Press.

He was inducted into the Iowa Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 1990.

On behalf of all of us at Spencer Radio Group, we send our deepest condolences to the Sanders family.