Memories and Tributes
Jim Ruddle, a memorable figure in television journalism, passed away in Rye, New York at the age of 94. His death was due to natural causes and announced by family members on social media. Former colleagues and competitors alike reminisced about Ruddle’s influence and character. Bill Kurtis, a former WBBM-Ch. 2 anchorman, described him as an ‘old school’ anchorman. He emphasized Ruddle’s commitment to fairness and clarity, stating, ‘Be first, but be accurate.’ Kurtis praised Ruddle’s writing skills, which set him apart in the early television news era.
Carol Marin, who worked with Ruddle at WMAQ-Ch. 5, extolled his ‘photographic memory, an IQ in the stratosphere’ and a vast journalism résumé spanning PBS, WGN, WMAQ, and NBC. Marin regarded ‘old school’ as the highest compliment for Ruddle.
Early Life and Career
James F. Ruddle was born on May 20, 1932, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was the youngest of George and Lucille Ruddle’s three children. He graduated from high school, mentored by the same teacher who had guided radio broadcaster Paul Harvey. Ruddle attended the University of Tulsa and enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1951, serving as a radio operator for three years.
His broadcasting career began as a teenager, working at a small radio station. After his Coast Guard service, he joined a Tulsa TV station in 1954. Ruddle pursued further studies at the University of New Mexico, while his career took him to Albuquerque, New Mexico, Tampa, Florida, and Mexico City, Mexico. He taught at the University of South Florida during his time in Tampa.
Broadcasting Successes
Ruddle’s Chicago journey started in 1965. He joined WGN-Ch. 9, becoming part of the first standard two-person anchor teams. In 1967, at WMAQ-Ch. 5, he excelled as a reporter and anchorman during afternoon shifts. His shift to public broadcasting in 1975 saw him anchor WTTW-Ch. 11’s ‘Public News Center.’ He later became a regional correspondent for NBC, available ’24 hours a day, seven days a week,’ witnessing numerous events, including blizzards.
Life Choices and Sailing Adventures
Ruddle was married to Anne, with whom he had four children: Emily, Blake, Brey, and Kristen. In 1986, despite being considered the successor to Floyd Kalber, Ruddle did not renew his contract at WMAQ. He opted for a life at sea on his boat, Zarzuela. His wife remained in Chicago while he explored the Atlantic, the Mississippi, and the Great Lakes.
Anne passed away in 2018. Ruddle later formed a relationship with Marilyn Balamaci, settling in Rye. He wrote the novel ‘My Name Is Luke,’ inspired by his grandchildren.
Legacy and Memories
Daughter Brey Sloan described him as an ‘exceptional man who led an amazing life.’ Ruddle’s friend Peter Nolan recalled his remarkable memory and baritone voice, which made him stand out. Nolan also enjoyed Ruddle’s sense of humor, remembering times singing old songs together.
Ruddle leaves behind his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as Balamaci. A memorial service is planned to honor his illustrious life.