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Jack Brosnan Obituary
Jack "Joseph" Brosnan
At the age of 91 has made his transition on November 13th, 2015. He was born in Binghamton NY, August 25th, 1924, to John and Mary Brosnan. He is proceeded in death by his parents and two older sisters Geraldine Brosnan and Katherine Richter.
Jack is survived by his wife of 61 years Helen Kitt, daughter Jacqueline and cousins Edward, (Leslie) Ann, Michael and James Rapson.
He graduated from Central High in Syracuse New York. Jack enlisted in the Marine Corp., during WWII, became part of B Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Regiment, 5th Marine Division. He fought as a machine gunner in The Battle of Iwo Jima. He was the "First Wave'" onto the island. He was wounded twice and was awarded The Purple Heart. He was there for the raising of the flag on Mt. Suribachi.
Following WWII he graduated from Syracuse University and became a Radio and TV announcer. Working first at WMBO in Auburn NY with a semi classical show called "The Jack J. Brosnan Show." Moving on to WOLF in Syracuse NY where he worked with Dick Clark. On to WGR in Buffalo NY, to WCLR in Clearfield PA. WKKO at Cocoa Beach FL, broadcasting down range at the Cape Canaveral shuttle launch when the Rhesus monkeys went into space for the first time, working alongside Walter Cronkite.
"Harold's Club Or Bust" as the signs read, their westward motivation, on to KTSM radio and TV in El Paso Texas, where their daughter was born. KSL radio and TV in Salt Lake City Utah. Reno, Nevada with KCBN radio, KOH radio, KOLO radio and TV, broadcasting his shows live from the Waldorf restaurant on S. Virginia st. in downtown Reno. Interviewing all the headliners in town, Harry James, Betty Grable, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Liberace, George Shearing, Nat King Cole, June Christie, Count Basie, Dinah Shore, Tony Bennett, just to mention a few. Metronome and Downbeat magazines referred to Jack as "The man who knew his music."
In 2006 Jack was inducted into the Broadcasters hall of fame.
Jack enjoyed hosting his dance parties at the historic Riverside Hotel Casino.
He hosted his own TV shows, "'The Jack Joseph Late Night Horror Show" and his "After Hours" show with many great movies and on camera interviews with performing artists in town, such as The Great Comedian/Impressionist Tony D'Andrea. Jack continued his "After Hours" show, interviewing celebrities, along side Oprah Winfrey in Los Angeles for ABC's new fall prime time show line up, stars like Charlton Heston, Buddy Ebsen, William Shatner, Dolly Parton, Celeste Holm, Henry Winkler and so many more.
Jack also enjoyed broadcasting live at The Reno Air Races for many years and The Balloon Races.
Jack was instrumental, with Monsignor Edward Thompson in starting the Catholic TV Mass, Still airing Sundays on KOLO TV.
Remember to use "The Jack Joseph Coupon Book, " as it continues it's monthly mailing.
It's suffice to say, Jack's life was well lived.
A private family service is scheduled. His celebration of life to be announced at a later date. Donations may be made to St. Thomas Aquinas Cathedral, 310 W. 2nd St, Reno, NV 89503.
Semper Fi Marine!
And as always, Jack's wish for you, "Blue Skies, Green Lights and Peace."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jack Brosnan
Sponsored by A Friend.
Carol Shubeck
December 17, 2025
Jackie, I´m thinking of you.. I feel so blessed to have spent time with your father, my dad, Jim Martin´s "fox hole buddy ". Your dad was one of the kindest, generous men I´ve met. I just felt enveloped in care! You think of what the two of our fathers went through together on Iwo Jima. It´s truly a miracle that our fathers survived, that we were even born! I truly believe God had a plan and a purpose for our lives!
Love you little sister!
Carol Martin Shubeck
Jackie
December 3, 2023
Miss you every day Dad.
Looking forward to the day we can all be together again. I love you
John
February 19, 2017
On this day February 19, 1945 9am Jack you were in the 27th Regiment, 5th Division a brave Marine on a small LST boat ridding the First Wave into the island of Iwo Jima, ready to give your life for our country. Although you never spoke of that terrible battle, I remember you telling me stories of all your buddies and especially the ones that didn't make it. You said,when I get there, they will say
"What took you so long?"
God was with you then may you now be with Him
and all your buddies.
Semper Fi Marine
And thanks for staying around a little longer.
Rest in peace Jack.
Your friend John
John
December 25, 2016
Merry Christmas Jack
Miss your perfection
bet you are helping to make everything just right up there.
Rest in Peace my friend
John
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John Katzman
August 25, 2016
Happy Birthday to a Truly Great Guy Jack Joseph. who would give you the shirt off his back if he thought you wanted it. Remembering the time you did, I still have it. There's no one like You Jack. May you rest in peace with our Lord. Semper Fi Marine.
Jeff Carroll
May 28, 2016
I loved Jack's late night show in the 70's & 80's. Always entertaining, humorous and positive, he and his show were a companion to me for many years. I had the opportunity to meet Jack only once later in his life. It was a moment in time I will always treasure. Thank you Jackie for that.
Blue skies, green lights and peace
to you Jack forever!
John Edwards
December 27, 2015
Merry Christmas Jack Joseph.
God bless you and your giving heart. "Rejoice and be glad for your reward in heaven is great." Matthew 5:12.
Light our way.
Our prayers are with you and your family, especially Helen and Jacqueline.
John and Marie Edwards
John Edwards
December 27, 2015
Merry Christmas Jack Joseph. God bless you and your giving heart. "Rejoice and be glad for your reward in Heaven is great." Matthew 5:12.
John and Marie Edwards
Doug & Bette Farrar
December 16, 2015
Dear Kitt and Jackie:
Jack was our spokesman and advertising mentor (Eagle Window & Door Co.) for twenty five years. His vibrant personality, wit, kindness and charm knew no boundaries. He truly was a "Class Act". He had such an interesting and full career and yet,his strength of character kept him humble.We loved it when he shared some of his stories with us. Jack was genuine and we will miss him! Jackie has her dad's same spark and brings joy to everyone around her. Jack, blue skies, green lights and peace to you and your family.
chris costanzo
December 12, 2015
Was my pleasure to have known Jack for a short time with his life in Reno.He is a class act and part of an old school Charm thats rare. He will be forever missed my heartfelt condolences to his family. Rest in peace Jack say hello to my father in heaven.
Ron & Janet Busi
December 10, 2015
Dear Kitt and Jackie,
So sad to hear of Jack's passing and our continued prayers and thoughts go out to you. Your family has been in our prayers over the months and we will continue to ask God to bless you with peace and comfort during your time of grieving.
We are thankful to have met the Brosnan family through the Jack Joseph Coupon Book so many years ago. We have good memories of Jack stopping by our home on business and getting to know him on a personal level. Jack always had a way of kidding my mom and having stimulating coversation with Ron. Hopefully the monthly Jack Joseph Coupon Book will help carry on the legacy of Jack for years to come.
We were amazed reading Jack's obituary and all the things he accomplished in his lifetime. We knew of his Marine Corp. service during WWII. So glad that Jack was able to participate in the Honor Flight here in Reno a few years ago and that you, Jackie, were able to accompany him to Washington, D.C. and experience that unforgettable time together.
Jack had a very distinctive voice and we would always comment on commercials when we heard him on the radio or television.
We know the holidays will always stir up memories and our times with our loved ones who have passed on and we especially will be thinking of you, Kitt and Jackie this holiday season.
Kitt, we know that Jack was the love of your life and that there will always be a part of you missing now that he is gone. Hold on to those wonderful memories of your life together. You and Jackie must be so proud of Jack and what he accomplished in his life.
Love to both of you,
Ron and Janet Busi
Ed Brosnan Rapson
December 10, 2015
I'm so sad to hear of Jack's passing. I shall miss him. He was my father's first cousin. I remember Jack as I was growing up and used to listen to him on the radio spinning records for WOLF AM radio 1490 on the dial in Syracuse, NY. I remember one day in particular when my dad got a call from Jack to invite us down to the station to see how the records were played. What a treat for my brother and I.Much later in life my wife and I visited with Jack and his family in Reno and attended the Reno Air Races. Jack was great and we all had a wonderful time. I am so sorry he is gone and I wanted to wish him "blue skies, green lights and peace".
Nancy & Lee Brant
December 9, 2015
What a sad day not to see Jacks smile and always kind words. The world has lost someone very special. He's touched many people and will never be forgotten. His voice and presence are one of a kind. Prayers and thoughts and love for Kitt and Jackie.
William Corn
December 9, 2015
Blue Skies Green Lights and Peace. ..
Pete Bigrigg
December 9, 2015
What a loss. Reno will never be the same, without his voice. I remember meeting him at the Riverside so many years ago, what a gentleman. Gods speed Jack can't wait to hear your voice again.
Janet Curtis
December 8, 2015
RIParadise dear Jack you will be missed by many... always in our hearts. Prayers to your family.
Terri
December 8, 2015
Rest in Peace Jack. My memories of you go way back to elementary school to making a commercial for a company I used to work for. I think you made life in Reno a little brighter. God Speed to you sir.
Rick (SAX) Metz
December 8, 2015
I always enjoyed visiting with Jack whenever he'd drop by to see me perform with "The Zella Lehr Show" at The Flamingo Hilton in Reno when I first moved here in the early '90's. A true gentleman...he will be missed by all that knew him!
michael collins
December 8, 2015
The man had style and class and was a true broadcaster. I really enjoyed his movies and watched quite a few marginal movies, just to hang out with Jack on the TV. A very nice guy and class all the way. All of us who remember him are sadder that he is gone but glad that we were bless by his presence.
B. Freeman
December 8, 2015
Another piece of Reno history is gone. Jack was truly one of the voices of a generation that grew up in Reno. Late night movies with Jack Joseph is a huge memory for many of us. RIP Jack and thank you for your service and many fond memories.
December 7, 2015
Rest in peacebwarm heart to all the family
Rob Hardy
December 7, 2015
25 years ago Jack Joseph was instrumental in getting our business (Brite Glass) going with his help in advertising. Everybody in Reno knew his voice, coupon book and T.V. shows. We are appreciative to this day for Jack and his daughter in their expert help to grow our business. Thank you Brosnans!!
john brown
December 7, 2015
Jack was one of the most recognized names in Reno...his voice will be missed...
Michaell Gabrielli
December 7, 2015
He was a good man and be became a true Nevadan. Sorry for your loss and our loss many up late nights in the 80s he was my late night friend. Never met him personally but remember him fondly. Mike Gabrielli
John Odin
December 6, 2015
Good Man,Good Heart,
too Good for this world.
May you rest in peace Jack.
Put in a good word for me.
My prayers and heartfelt condolences
to Kitt and Jackie
Sharon Pike
December 6, 2015
I had the pleasure a few times years ago. And always on late night TV. Blue skies green lights and Peace Jack! See you soon! Reno Icon!! You will always be remembered. Blessings to you and your family. Namaste sweet soul
Kathleen Wood
December 6, 2015
Jack was my customer @Walmart Damote Ranch...always a gentleman..quietly shopping but always a smile when somone recognized him...I love his laid back demeanor on commercials ...one of kind.Thank you for coming in and allowing me to help yiu.You will be missed.
Lawana Martinez
December 6, 2015
Sending our condolences to the Brosnan family, he will be missed by many here in Reno, Nevada. RIP
roy street
December 6, 2015
Rest in Peace Jack
Lori Hull DeAndreis
December 6, 2015
Please accept my sincere condolences. Jackie, it's been so long. I'm sorry to hear about your Dad. I will never forget the Christmas Party at your house when we were in Kindergarten ... it was magical!
Les Terry
December 6, 2015
Dear Kitt and Jackie,
I am sorry to hear of Jack's passing. As with all the other parishioners, I have been praying for him and your family. I always looked for Jack in church and took the time to say "Hi!" when he was there. I have missed his presence. He was one month older than my Dad, another veteran of the Pacific Theater. We shared some common threads one day in a conversation over that.
God Bless Jack, Kitt and Jackie
Les Terry
Jane Stevens
December 6, 2015
My late husband and Jack were friends. Jack gave us a blender for a wedding present; up to 4 years ago I was still using it. Every time I I did use it, I could hear his voice. Many blessings.
Shirley Coddington
December 5, 2015
So sorry to hear of the passing of Jack. Loved listening to his shows at night and his beautiful voice. My condolences to his family. thanks so much for the special memories, Jack. You will be sorely missed.
Dan McGee
December 5, 2015
Sorry to hear of you passing Jack. Met you and your daughter many years ago. Thanks for the memories. Rest in Peace and may God hold your soul in the palms of his hands.
December 5, 2015
All great voices go to heaven. He shall be missed. Prayers for the family to find comfort knowing he is in good company.
The Lee Peer Family
Hal Swift
December 5, 2015
I was Jack's engineer and producer for his all night show from the Waldorf Club in downtown Reno. Jack and I had a lot of laughs together, and some serious times, too. I can imagine he is continuing to welcome newcomers to his celestial show, saying, "Hi, and welcome. Where are you from?" Here's to the best of everything in your new life, Jack. Your Pal Hal This is how you referred to me for all our years on air. In your own words, "Blue skies, and green lights, ol' buddy."
December 5, 2015
Remembering you at the Riverside casino spinning records, Be with God, thanks for the memories. RPerdue
Michalene whitaker
December 5, 2015
My heart is with you Helen and Jackie. Love Michalene
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