Bill Kuster was a meteorologist at 9News from 1979 to 1996. He was part of one of the most successful news teams in the country. Bill lost his battle with leukemia on Saturday at the age of 76.He spent 16 years doing the weather in Philadelphia before coming to Denver in 1979. Many of those who worked with him could spend hours talking about the highlights of Bill's life, but Ward Lucas who worked closely with Bill, says he wouldn't like that. In a business that is known for egos, Bill's gentle nature and down home approach to life didn't have much room for boasting. Lucas says Bill was folksy and funny, with a sense of humor so infectious, he could make anyone laugh. Many in Denver remember Bill for his work in the Kuster Garden – a signature project he actually began while working at KYW-TV in Philadelphia. Each year Bill would spend endless hours working and watching over his garden. At harvest time, he would gather up all the vegetables, and with the help of a local restauranteur, prepare a meal for a homeless shelter in Denver. Bill's on-air weather style was warm and friendly. His simple and conversational way of delivering the weather endeared him to his many viewers. Bill started out when weather maps for television were full length painted murals. He would hand write all the highs, lows, temperature patterns, and forecasts for each and every newscast. By the time Bill retired, he had made the leap and was working with a vast array of sophisticated weather computers.Bill leaves behind a wife of 51 years, Dottie, his son Mark and his daughter Kim. His funeral with be at Olinger Chapel Hill Friday at 2 p.m. Donations can be made to the Leukemia Society of America or the Porter Hospice Foundation.
9News remembers Bill Kuster
DENVER – One of the men who helped build 9NEWS into what it is today has passed away.
