Chicago Area Local News

  Viewers share their thoughts and memories of CBS 2 Morning anchor Randy Salerno, who passed away in a snowmobiling accident late Thursday night.

I experienced Randy's humbleness and kindness when he held a door open for me as I struggled to exit a local Crystal Lake store with a cart full of items and my daughter in tow. I smiled and thanked him and at the same time recognized him. It wasn't "beyond him" to help someone—which is refreshing, especially from a celebrity! He will be greatly missed.
--Maria M. of Crystal Lake, IL

Many thoughts and prayers go out to all whom knew and loved Randy he will be very missed. I had the pleasure to meet him a few years back while he was doing one of many fundraisers in Crystal Lake. My deepest sympathy goes out to all his family, friends and to you his co-workers. He made you feel like a family member, his endless sense of humor, his warmth and caring, his love for family and community. He will forever be a fixture in many hearts. -- Susan and Alan Kallerud

My prayers are with you all, his family, and his friend that was driving the snowmobile. You all lost so much. Peace. -- Natalie Mooney

I'm stunned and very saddened upon hearing the news of Randy's death. What a blow to us all. Quite simply, he made me laugh and smile in the morning. I get up very early to catch a workout before work, and watching Randy's broadcasts before, during, and after my workouts were nothing less than entertaining! I especially enjoyed the occasional "sparring" between him and Ed! My sincerest condolences to his wife and three children, to his WBBM family, his former WGN family, and to all others that loved him. I will miss him greatly. -- Elizabeth Roberts

I watch channel 2 news at 11. It just won't be the the same without Randy. He made laugh at his jokes and humor. I will miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with you at Channel 2 and with his family. -- Margaret of Glendale Hts. IL

I am so very sorry to hear about Randy Salerno's passing. I just happened to turn my television on a few minutes ago, and I heard all of you talking about what a good guy he was, how funny he was,...and I thought at first that he moved on to a different TV station or something. I saw Roseanne tearing up and I thought, wow...she's really sad to see him leave...(it's like he died or something). Well, when I heard that he passed away, it made my jaw drop, and I actually got teary eyed myself. I looked forward to seeing Randy on the air in the morning. I just want to send all of you at Channel 2 news, his family and friends my heartfelt condolences. It is such a shock and so sad. I will miss Randy. -- Lydia Liffick

My husband and I watch the Channel 2 news every morning and Randy will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to his wife and children and I hope they know we will keep them in our prayers. -- Bev Allen

I was shocked and saddened to hear this morning that Randy was killed last evening in a snowmobiling accident in Wisconsin. While I didn't know Randy personally, I still felt we knew each other professionally. I remember listening to Randy on the radio when I worked in Peoria, Illinois a long time ago. And then I also remember when he started at WGN news and worked there. Then he moved to CBS 2 and I also followed him there. It's as if news isn't complete without Randy.

I am a broadcast captioner and I caption CBS 2 news quite frequently at 11 a.m. on weekdays, so I felt that I got to know Randy through following him through his career. While I never personally met Randy, I still felt like as though I knew him. He was an extremely talented journalist and a very fun loving man and he will be extremely missed. My heart goes out to his family at home and also his television families that have to continue reporting the news daily without him. -- Tina Conness of Peru, Illinois

Our deepest sympathy goes out to Randy's family and also his extended family at CBS 2 in Chicago. When we turned on the TV in the mornings we always knew that Randy would make us smile. God Bless him and his family. -- Amador & Roberta Velez


I got into my car this morning about 10 and I could have sworn that I heard the news person say that Randy Salerno was killed last night in a snowmobile accident, it was as if I was experiencing an out of body experience. I switched to another station and I heard it again. My first reaction was total shock and then I began to weep openly while driving. This is such a tragic loss for the city of Chicago. I loved listening to him on the Gary Meier show on 105.9, he was such a funny and smart, smart guy. I was so dissapointed when that show was canceled but I knew that I could still catch him on the 11am news. I do feel personally affected by this, as if I have lost a family member. My sincerest and deepest condolences to his wife and children at this most difficult time. While typing this I can barely see through my tears. -- Gail O.

For the 12 years I have lived in Chicago, I have watched Randy Salerno on WGN and Channel 2. The best: outstanding reporter on all topics, very funny, handsome, smooth voice, a friend to all. I will especially miss Randy and Rosanne every weekday at 11am. A truly superior team. My thoughts are with Rosanne and all at Channel 2 and WGN, his family and friends. Thanks Randy. -- Nancy

I moved into Chicago two years ago and woke up to Randy and Roseanne everyday. I tried other channels, but I was always drawn to these two, because getting up in the morning at 5:30 is not easy, I immediately turn the telly on to Ch. 2 and make my coffee, five minutes into the news, they get me to chuckle that early in the morning, not a bad way to start the day....since then I have been addicted to the Ch. 2 news. Today, I felt myself crying...I felt like I lost a friend even though I never had the pleasure to meet such a delightful person who got me going everyday. Funny thing....I would even miss his humor on the weekends.-- Koree Gilbert

My condolences to all of you at the CBS 2 Chicago family, especially Roseanne, Ed and Susan. Just as many, many others out there, Randy always made me laugh, which is quite something considering the topics of some of the news reports that had to be covered. The team of Randy, Roseanne, Ed and Susan was one in a million and I can't imagine any other news team ever coming close to having the chemistry that those four had on air. Their grief was so apparent on the 11 a.m. newscast and my heart goes out to them as they try to take this in and move forward. Randy will be sorely missed in my household and my thoughts are with all of you at the CBS 2 Chicago family as you try to carry on without a member of your "family." -- Laurie Julian of Hampshire, Ill.

We are so sorry to hear about Randy. But now he's in a better place. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. May god bless his family. -- Fontanez and Rivera family

I am deeply saddened this morning to hear of the tragic loss of the "best" local newscaster in Chicago, Randy Salerno. I always watched him in the morning because he was so refreshing and quick-witted that he even made the news very entertaining. I will miss him very much and would like to send my sympathy to all that loved him and enjoyed his company, and I'm sure this is many millions of people. I can't believe this awful news and can't stop crying, especially for his lovely wife and young children. They will be in my thoughts and prayers. It is a very sad day in Chicago. -- Chris Rasch

I will always miss Randy's distinct voice and personality. He was a definite stand out on Channel 2 news, as well as WGN TV. He was a class act and I will pray for him & his family. -- Pat Seidl

My message is for Roseanne. I'm watching the news right now and I just wish I could reach through the TV and give you a hug. I understand your loss and hope you know that if we could all choose when we leave, it would be doing something so fun and with such good friends! -- Pam Readdy

I had just switched to watching his newcast in the morning. He had a great sense of humor and a great wit. Yet he could give the serious side of the news with much thoughtfulness. -- Barbara Zielinski

As a friend of the Hirshey's, I met Randy thru them. He was always cheerful and hospitable at parties and get-togethers and was very approachable. He will be missed very much by his family and friends. My prayers and thoughts got out to Irene and the kids. -- Sherry Waligurski

I'm so sorry to hear about Randy, when the morning news came on this morning, I cried, couldn't believe my friend had passed. Thank you all for making our morning so funny everyday. God bless, I'll still wake up with you all. -- Kim and Joe Walter

I was at the Cubs game when he sang during the 7th inning stretch, Randy really got the crowd going. I feel sad, I have lost a member of my family today! -- Lisa Palminteri of Mount Prospect

My family was shocked, even my eight year old Shania. We sat quietly and remembered Randy. He along with all of the CBS 2 news team, got all three of "up and at 'em" as Suzanne says. My hubby and I would have our coffee and our daughter, her juice while we laughed with Randy. He is a great loss and we will light a candle to remember Randy at church this weekend and pray for his wife and children as well. Miss you Randy. --Linda, Greg & Shania Dvorak, Palatine, IL

I am just so saddened to hear this terrible news. I have had a "crush" on Randy for a long time now. He was just so sweet and funny, smart, and sexy. I almost feel like I've lost a co-worker. I am one of a group of realtime broadcast captioners that captions the local news for WBBM. I do the 5-7 a.m. and 11 a.m. broadcasts often and just totally looked forward to writing every word Randy said. He will be sorely missed! -- Judy Walsh (Caption Colorado)

THE NEWS WILL NOT BE THE SAME..RANDY WAS ONE OF THE BEST NEWS CASTERS TO WATCH. HE WILL BE TRULY MISSED. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS WIFE AND KIDS...GOD BLESS. -- Scott Charmelo

Randy and the CBS morning team have been part of our lives since he came to Channel 2 in 2004. With his quick wit and wry personality he made us laugh and start our day with a smile. We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife and children along with his morning crew Roseanne, Ed, Susan & Bill. His presence will be greatly missed.
Stay strong all of you.
Sincerely,
Ray & Jean Apple, Joliet, IL


OMG! I can't believe it. He is/was THE only reason I watched channel 2 news while getting ready for work in the morning for years. (besides the others that Randy plays off of: Roseanne, Ed, Susan, Bill and Kris) I have a HUGE crush on him. Its a big joke with all my friends. I watched him on channel 9 for years at work during my lunch hour. Not only is he unbelievably handsome, but funny to boot. I will miss him so much.
--Christine


I am the owner of the McHenry County Pirates Football Team in Algonquin. Randy and I chatted several times about football via phone and email. He was always so personable and had a great sense of humor.

Please extend my condolences to his family and his CBS family. He's truly one of the great guys and will be greatly missed.
--Glenda Cain


I feel like I've lost a family member. I loved his sarcastic wit. I always thought how lucky his wife was to have him. My prayers are with her and his children.
--Mary Alexander


I WAS LISTENING TO JOHNNY B. ON WLUP.COM, AND HEARD THE NEWS ABOUT RANDY SALERNO. OF COARSE I WAS SHOCKED. SINCE I LIVE IN CLERMONT, FLORIDA FOR THE PAST FEW YEARS I ONLY GET THE CHANCE TO WATCH HIM WHEN I COME HOME TO CHICAGO TO VISIT MY FAMILY. I USE TO ENJOY HIM ON WGN. I LOVED HIS SINCE OF HUMOR. I AM SADDENED BY HIS DEATH. HE WILL BE MISSED. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY, ALL HIS FRIENDS AND HIS FANS. THIS TRAGEDY WILL BE A BIG LOSS TO CHICAGO.
VERY SHOCKED AND SADDENED,
--TOM REED, CLERMONT, FLORIDA


Wow do all of us here know how you are feeling. On January 14th, 3 years has passed since we lost a dear friend and co-worker, Joe Shoop, in the exact same place in Wisconsin doing the same thing. His snowmobile veered off the trail and ran head-on into a tree. It killed Joe instantly even though he was wearing a helmet. I still have his picture here on my cubicle wall.

Our condolences to Randy's friends and family.
--Tracy L. Thornton, Vernon Hills


I'm in shock! As I was watching CBS 2 this am I said..Randy is off on vacation. I rcvd. a phone call @ work telling me the tragic news. I'm very sad today as Randy, Susan, Ed, & Roseanne were in my home every morning. Randy will be missed so much. I loved his segments of finding stuff on internet, the coolest, funniest stuff. I switched from the other stations last year because of the great chemistry the team provided. My deepest sympathy to all of you at CBS and his family. Randy is now an angel in heaven.
--Princess


Randy Salerno was a part of almost every weekday a.m. of my husband Bryan's and myself; he and Suzanne and Roseanne made such a good team and made us laugh with our morning cup of joe and to hear of his sudden, tragic passing is just unbelievably sad, TO SAY THE VERY LEAST. I cannot even begin to fathom the station and his own family's depth of grief over this, but I just wanted to share this email with whomoever is concerned, that Randy shared and made almost every morning a better one for us...so THANK YOU, Randy, May you have eternal peace and know you made a positive difference while you were here this brief time.

Please accept our deepest condolences to the CBS family who worked with Randy, shared special times with him, but most especially, to his precious family who must be feeling the greatest loss... may they eventually find peace of mind, and know that when they look up in the sky, that Randy is part of that sun that shines upon us all, and watches over his family and all of us....we'll think of him with each morning cup of coffee, that is for sure.

Bless you, Randy, and your entire family, both at work and at home. GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.
--RLedbetter


I have been watching CBS2 morning news for as long as I can remember and Randy is my favorite. He could always make me laugh even at 5 am. I just can't believe he won't be there any more. My sympathies to his family and friends at CBS 2.
--Mary Smith, Plainfield Illinois


My condolences go out to Randy's family and friends. He was a dynamic TV Anchorman that I truly enjoyed watching. Randy's exceptional happy and fun-loving personality showed through the television screen every time he appeared.

On behalf of many, many Chicagoans who started their day with him, please know that Randy's charming personality will be greatly missed.

I pray for comfort for those who knew him personally…his wife, his children, family and his dear friends, including his channel two friends who had the pleasure of working with him every day.
--Rosie V. Perez, Chicago


I had just watched the show this morning as I do every morning before heading off to work. Although Randy was not on the show I just figured he had taken a day off. The crew gave no indication of anything being amiss. My husband then called me at work and told me the news. I am truly shocked and devastated. Randy was such a central part of that morning team and I will truly miss his humor. What a wonderful man he was and way too young to have died. My sympathies to his family and his CBS team members.
--Kathy M. Modesto, Rolling Meadows


I was never much of a morning news person until, over the last year, I became a devoted fan of CBS 2's morning crew. Roseanne, Ed, Susan, and Randy have always been, to me, a really even group of reporters. Randy always had a great blend of seriousness and mischievousness that especially struck a cord in our household.

This morning we were watching and idly wondering where Randy was, and then were shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. We can only imagine how hard it will be for his family, friends, and coworkers, and our sympathies go out to all of them.

There's nothing specific that I can say about Mr. Salerno, but his wit, character, and sense of humor will be sorely missed by the people of Chicago.
~Jw


Randy was always a fun and interactive new anchor to watch – he and Roseanne, Susan and Ed knew how to work together to get things moving in the morning. He will be greatly missed.
--Karen Siravo


WHAT A PLEASURE TO WATCH HIM EACH AND EVERY MORNING WE WILL MISS HIM TERRIBLY
-Sue Preston


My thoughts and prayers are with his family. He was a great journalist. He will be missed.
--Gina Jeorge


Randy was the reason that I watch channel 2. I followed him there from channel 9. I found him to be a true professional and a very funny guy. He will be missed by all who watched him. My prayers go out to the Channel 2 Family and his Wife and Children.
--Howard D., Buffalo Grove


My husband and I were shocked to hear the news of Randy's death this morning. We watched him for years when he worked at WGN-TV but switched to CBS 2 after he and Roseanne both joined the morning show. They were quite a team with his quick wit and sarcasm and her laughter. He will be sorely missed!

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his immediate family and to his extended CBS family.
--Angie Janus


My family went on a cruise with CBS2 a couple of years ago. My daughter L'Oreal began to talk and laugh with Mr. Salerno on the cruise saying: "she's better known as Diann Burns." She asked for Randy's autograph, he autographed her poster board saying to the "Un Real Diann Burns from Randy"

I will never forget him saying one morning "Good Morning my name is Roseanne Tellez" that was too funny!!!!

Missing him already
--Sandra & L'Oreal


When I moved to Wisconsin several years ago, I had to behind WGN morning news, which was tough; however, (thankfully) they did air WGN afternoon news on cable. I moved back to the Chicago area almost two years ago and was thrilled to see Randy and Rosanne on CBS in the mornings. I followed them to their "new" station and woke up to them every day.

On air, Randy seemed so quick, but kind in his broadcasts as he joked with his colleagues and gave professional reports of the news. What a shock to lose him.
--Amanda Cornell, Geneva, IL


I normally would not do something like this. But he just seemed like a really good guy.
A guy that anyone would have liked.
--Ray Mormann


Truly dedicated to his job and coworkers. Made the news interesting while telling the facts.
He will truly be missed. My sincere condolences to his family and coworkers.
--Heather and Dan, Cedar Lake, IN


I'm not sure if the Channel 2 news team knows how much you mean to us viewers. It really is like you are part of our family. We wake every morning over coffee and learn what's happening in the world. Sometimes it's not good news. Sometimes we can't believe it is happening.

Randy will be dearly missed.
--Leon Reeder


The only news program I watched on channel 2 is the 5 to 7 program every day because of Randy, Roseanne, Ed and Susan. I always enjoyed Randy's vitality, honesty and boyish ways. His and Susan's bickering was always entertaining. He could go from serious and being funny with such ease without going overbroad. I never met him, but I feel like I lost a
friend. He was not plastic like so many others. I will truly miss him.
Condolences to his wife and family.
--Mary Siegel


The entire CBS team is in our prayers; particularly Randy's family and close friends. I have great memories of Randy and the other folks on the morning show when we have made appearances with our animals. Randy's quit wit and genuineness in his personality is what I remember most. We'll miss him deeply. You'll have our continued support and prayers during this very difficult time.
--Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm


I was sorry to hear of Randy's accident that took his life. I will keep his family in my prayers in this difficult time.

I knew Randy both from Channel 9 and 2 when he interviewed me on various stories. I found him to be a good journalist and reported stories very well.

These accidents are very difficult to accept, other than it's God's way of calling someone home. We should be very grateful for the good service Randy did in his lifetime.

My condolences,
Doug Dobmeyer


My prayers are with Randy's Family and you and your's too I hope you can get though this time sadness with you the prayer of family, friends and coworker and your fans.
-Chamrine Lane, Chicago


My thoughts and prayers are with the CBS 2 News family this morning. CBS 2 News continually displays professionalism and Randy was a big part of that.
Sincerely,
Sgt. Christopher Thompson
Lake County Sheriff's Office


Randy was a good friend of Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, and we always appreciated the fact that the local hometown kid brought his own family back to raise his kids in nearby Crystal Lake, where he grew up. Randy and I were the same age and I liked when we gave each other grief over our rival alma maters – Randy's Illinois State Redbirds, and my Bradley Braves. He volunteered to be emcee' for Good Shepherd's celebration event when our cardiac center was named for best surgical quality in the State of Illinois, and he gave of his time and talent without hesitation.

At a time when everyone seems to go 100 miles an hour through life, Randy always reminded us that it still wasn't out of style to take a moment to help others in need. He'll surely be missed by many. God Bless him.

Mike Deering
Director of Communications & Government Relations
Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital
Barrington, IL


This news is such a shock. I moved to the area in 2001 and watched Randy on WGN. I thought he was extremely talented and very personable. I didn't understand why he never moved up to prime time shows.

My heart goes out to his family and to those who knew him personally. The absence of his presence will leave a hole in many hearts in the Chicagoland area.
--Sherri Modrzejewski


Randy was one of those newscasters that the viewer felt comfortable with. He had a similar style to John Drury, Floyd Kalber, Bill Kurtis and the other great newscasters here in Chicago.

He and Roseanne Tellez made a great morning team. He'll be hard to replace and will be miss by many in Chicago.
--Wayne Parker, Peotone, IL


I first heard the news about Randy Salerno passing away this morning on the way to work. I felt sick to my stomach. I enjoyed him as well as the rest of the morning show crew so very much. The morning news will never be the same without him. His slightly irreverent take on life was what made him so refreshing and endearing. As loyal viewers of CBS, we will greatly miss him. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family.
--Diane Jelen


I am a loyal CBS 2 News watcher. It is my favorite news program and Randy was certainly a large part of that. Every morning while I am grumbling getting ready for work, Randy would make me laugh with his wonderful sense of understated humor. Honestly it set a positive tone to my day. I will sorely miss Randy Salerno but I will continue to watch the rest of the wonderful CBS news team. Best wishes to those friends and loved ones of Randy. It is a tragic loss.

Sincerely,
--Toby R Fisher, Gilberts, IL


I haven't seen much of Randy since he departed channel 9 for channel 2, but I remember him very well from channel 9. He was great. Sympathies to his family and his news family, especially Rosanne Tellez who worked with him so closely.
--Sophie Kupiec, Palos Hills


WOW!!!! I was watching one morning to him on CBS 2 Chicago and thought that he and Roseanne made such a good combination. They both are so inviting to watch and then I thought that he and Robin were that same
inviting presence when he filled in on WGN. That tells me he did a lot to carry a morning show and his spirit was strong. He will be sorely missed.
--K Sharkey, Richton Park


I am so terribly terribly sad about the loss of Randy Salerno. I watch Channel 2 every morning and he always made me laugh. I feel like I knew him. I loved his sense of humor. My husband saw him at a store in Algonquin last year and got his autograph for me. It's still on my frig. It says "Dear Jeannine, Thanks for getting up so early to watch Channel 2. Randy". I am sure you will get hundreds and hundreds of e-mails. He will be greatly missed.

With my deepest sympathies to all of you and Randy's family.
--Jeannine Vaughn, Algonquin, Illinois


I never met him but felt like I did, I especially liked him when he did radio with Garry Meier. Randy seemed like a great guy, my condolences to his family.
--John Jaszka, Carol Stream


My husband and I were absolutely shocked and grieved to hear this morning of Mr. Salerno's death. We truly enjoy the entire morning show team. Randy's humor, voice and consistant professionalism have been like comfort food to us.

It's hard to imagine how the CBS 2 News family and Randy's own family and friends will accept this loss. I know he will be hugely missed by innumerable other families across Chicagoland.

Please accept our sympathies and best possible wishes at this heartwrenching transition.

Best regards,
Kathryn & Ryan, Chicago


Oh my gosh! I am shocked and in disbelief. I loved him so much. He was so funny. He really helped me to get going in the morning. I watched him on WGN for years and more recently on CBS 2. I was pleasantly surprised last summer to hear him on the radio in the mornings with Gary Meier, another of my favorites, after the CBS 2 morning news. The two of them together were a great team. Randy was great wherever he was. It makes me realize how fragile life is. My prayers are with his family and his co-workers.
--Holly Horrell


I was so saddened when I heard the news on the radio when I got to work about Randy Salerno. I listen to CBS News every morning from 5:30 am to 6:30 am while I get ready to go to work. Randy's sense of humor always made me start the workday with a smile. He will be missed!!!!
--Marsha A. Stec, Chicago


I and my family have been in the Chicago land area for 7 years now and I can recall watching him on WGN-9 each morning. I was tickled when he moved to CBS morning news and have been a loyal watcher ever since. I agree with your General Manger in that Randy had a great sense of humor and often made me laugh as I prepared for another day commuting to work.

I and my family also send our deepest sympathies to his wife, children, and to all of you. We will miss him.
--Robin Fischer


It is with obvious shock that I read your headline about Randy!

For the past 2 years Randy and the crew has helped me start my work day. I can hear him now joking with Ed Curran and Roseanne Tallez. Not many people can get me to laugh at 5:15 AM but Randy could. I remember him as being the 'straight man' to Ed and Roseanne's humor. I remember once the crew joking about Barbie dolls and Randy knew all about the dolls, to the surprise of Ed. Randy explained that it paid to have daughters. How very sad for his family (and fans). Blessings to his family at a sad and hard time.
Sincerely,
Maureen, Chicago


I feel like I lost a friend…like I knew him. I watch ALL the Channel 2 news times. I sent Randy an email with a dancing dog….he always showed animal video's.

He and Susan were always picking on each other….cute. He refused to tell anyone how tall he was… They all got along and had fun…not just a serious newscast.

My heart breaks for Channel 2, Channel 9 and especially his family.

To fill that chair is going to be almost impossible…I'm still in shock.

I hope you do something great in his memory…I hope Channel 2 will continue to be there for his family

God Bless you Randy and your family
--Patti


I was so saddened to hear about Randy Salerno's tragic death. He and Roseanne Tallez got me going together every morning over my first cup of coffee and the newspaper. I'll miss him greatly!!

I used to watch WGN in the morning until they made the move to CBS.

So sad... The poor family!
--Stefanie Christopher, Oak Park, IL




I cannot believe this has happened. He felt like he was part of my family. At 5:00am every morning there he was on my T.V. screen. He always made me laugh. He had a great personality and you never got tired of listening to him. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and colleagues.
--Linda J. Graham


For years, Channel 2 has been my #1 choice for the morning news, and Randy Salerno is a primary reason why. He delivered the news of the day which often included unpleasant and sometimes tragic stories. But he also shared his sense of humor with us. The camaraderie and rapport between Randy and the other morning team members was evident. When the news of his death was reported just before the 7:00 hour, I was shocked and then felt the loss as if hearing about a friend's passing. Randy proved a job could be well done but yet with time for lightheartedness.
--Shirley Hurley, Rolling Meadows, IL


I am sitting here shocked by the news of his passing. I thought I heard the news wrong so I went to the website. I am so sad for his family and his family on the morning show. I never have met him but felt connected since my family lives in Lake in the Hills. My husband would come
home from work and I would tell him of the things that Randy would say that was funny that day. He and the whole group was a perfect match they each had their way of teasing with him and I loved it when Susan would give him a hard time and he would just laugh.

This is a sad time and please know that all the viewers like me are heartbroken for his whole family.
--Jodi Tomer


We loved Randy's work with Garry Meier on WCKG. His humor, irreverent wit and his warmth came through every day.

Our prayers are with his wife, children and family.
--The Short Family, Batavia, IL


I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Randy Salerno. He was the reason I switched over to Channel 2 in the morning, because of his humor and wit and the way he clicked with the morning team. He is already terribly missed and will leave a void hard to fill. I did hear the news first on US 99.5 and could not believe it. My thoughts and prayers are with his children, wife, his family and friends.

Best regards,
--Francy McNamara, Carol Stream


just received shocking news from my daughter and this is so sad to hear. its not going to be the same not seeing randy sitting alongside roseanne with his sense of humor and handsome face. my prayers
of comfort go out to his wife and children.
--Marlene Steward

i am so sorry to hear the passing of randy salerno. i never missed the news at 11 a.m. he always made me laugh. to me randy and roseanne made the 11a. m. news. they not only reported the news but they made it fun. i extend my sympathy to his family and to all his family at cbs news. the 11 a. m. news will not be the same with out randy. may he rest in peace.

always, marianne gunterberg


Randy was the best. He made the morning news worth watching.
--John Thompson


I am so saddened to hear the news. I loved waking up to Randy every morning. Quick wit, smart, and always on target to the heart of the issue (or how ridiculous something could be).

A true loss for the City of Chicago and the surrounding area.

We will miss you Randy!!
--Debra Armstrong


Just read about Ramdy Salerno on the Internet. How sad. We enjoyed watching him and Rosanne on the 11:30 am news. Have watched him for years in different places and times. He was such a gentle giant. Our condolences to Channel 2 and to his family. The good die young.
--Mary Russ, Aurora


I can't believe it. I went to read the news on the CBS 2 website this morning and was greeted with this tragic story. I am so sorry for all of you at Channel 2 for the loss of your colleague and most of all, your friend. My heart goes out to his wife and three children.
--Estelle Mann


I just wanted to pass along my heartfelt condolences.

Randy and I met at the Poynter Institute some years ago and were recently in touch again by email.

He sent me a CBS 2 pen which I have used nearly every day…this is hard to believe.

He was such a talent and as a fellow Chicagoan, I always made it a point to watch him when I returned home.

Please, pass this along to his family, so that they will know how many lives he touched in so many places.
--Demetria Kalodimos
WSMV, Nashville, Tn


The face of honesty. A trusted newscaster. Respected on air personality and will be missed. This is so tragic.
--Rogobo


My Husband and I send our deepest condolences and our Prayers to your family. We met Randy on the boast cruise
and we talked about our Italian heritage. He talked about his Dad and my Husband talked about his. We talked about going to Italy and checking where he came from.
Randy will be missed by everyone who knew him. He made you feel like you knew him all your life.
--Mr. And Mrs. Frank Porcaro, DesPlaines


My wife and I woke up every morning watching the news cast with Randy and the gang. I too live in Crystal Lake and we always appreciated his mentioning of our beautiful town. I can only imagine what his family and the cbs2 news family is going though right now. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
--Ira Handelsman, Crystal Lake


I always watched channel 2 news in the morning because i liked randy roseanne
susan and ed. They made a good team. They seemed to get along good together.
They made me laugh. I will miss randy's sense of humor. I am going to light
a candle for him and his family in front of my blessed mary for the repose of his soul.
--Kathleen Ferry

I'm so sorry to hear about Randy. He was such a ray of sunshine in the morning to me. I can only imagine how the rest of the Morning Team must feel, as well as his young family. My prayers are with all of you.

Randy was always so entertaining, funny, caring and most of all a regular guy. He seemed like the kind of person you could just sit down w/& have a great conversation with if you ever met him on the street.

I've watched the Channel 2 Morning News for a number of years because of the great comradery you all have. I know that Randy's fun-loving spirit will remain. Mornings just won't be the same for any of us.

Thank you,
--Robyn Fatter, Downers Grove


I am stunned and so sad to hear of his death. I have enjoyed the morning show so much since Randy joined the show. He had a great sense of humor and was so good at his job. He was one of the main reasons I continued to watch the show every morning before leaving for work. I know he had younger children and a wife and I am deeply sorry for them. What a terrible loss.
--Michele Schneider, Naperville


I NEVER MET OR KNEW RANDY IN PERSON, I WAS VERY SADDENED WHEN I HEARD ABOUT THE NEWS THIS MORNING,HOW COULD A GREAT PERSON BE GONE SO QUICKLY.I ALWAYS SAW RANDY ON TV ON CHANNEL 2,AND CHANNEL 9 NEWS FOR THE LAST 15 YEARS,I ALWAYS ENJOYED HIS NEWSCAST FOR HIS TALENT ,HUMOR ,AND ATTACHMENT TO THE NEWS CREW.I LIKED THE WAY HE COVERED STORIES AND THREW IN A FEW JOKES TOO.MY PRAYERS GOES OUT TO THE SALERNO FAMILY AND THE NEWS CREW FAMILY,AND YOU HAVE TO REMEMBER THAT RANDY WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU IN SPIRIT FOREVER AND EVER.
--PAULEY, HIGHWOOD ILL


I am deeply sadden to hear the tragic news of Randy Salerno, I will miss wakening up to hear his voice and quick wit in the morning. He was part of a wonderful team. Please extend my sympathy to CBS 2 News family and his immediate family. My heart goes out to all of you. He will be truly missed but never forgotten.

Thanks for the memories!
--Colleen


I am so sad this morning. Randy and Rosanne were my 11 a.m. news team. I cannot even imagine the sadness in your newsroom this morning. Randy's friendly smile and easy manner touched all of us, and he will be sorely missed. I hope that any memorial for Randy will be communicated to us.

May he rest in peace.
--Pat Shaw, Woodstock


I was shocked and saddened to hear of Randy's passing. As a hometown native of Crystal Lake where I grew up, I knew of the Salerno family through working with his brother many years ago. Watching Randy on major TV networks such as WGN and CBS made me proud, knowing a fellow "Crystal Laker" had done so well for himself. He was a funny and compelling broadcaster that I know will be deeply missed by many.

My condolences to Randy's wife, children and immediate family, as well as his many friends and fans. Rest in peace, you've been taken away too soon.

Sincerely,
Susan Stern



There are 2 many memories to send...I was stunned and saddened by this news. I have enjoyed watching the morning news with Rosanne and Randy, they made a great team and I definitely laughed everyday, which is so refreshing these days. It will not be the same without him. Susan, Bill, Ed and Rosanne, I am deeply sorry for your loss...My prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends.
--Long time 2 watcher.....~JEN~


My sincerest prayers are with Randy's family as well as with his CBS 2 family. The natural chemistry he had with the entire morning team was engaging and genuinely refreshing. The way he could make Roseanne and Susan laugh and giggle sometime was just so real, I often felt as though I was in the company of "real" friends of mine. I am saddened by the news of his death. But I will encourage all who truly know him and love him to lean on each other, hold on to your faith and celebrate his life with the wonderful memories you have of your time together.
--P. L. Barlow


I am so sorry to hear this horiffic news. My mouth literally fell open this morning when I heard the dreadful news. My husband and I just looked at each other in disbelief. My prayers will so be with his wife, children and friends. I really enjoyed watching him with Roseanne, Susan and Ed. You guys are awesome. I will pray for you guys to deal with this tragic tragic event. Hang in there Roseanne, Susan, Ed and the rest of the newsteam. Do celebrate his life. He was a real winner!! He was AWESOME! He made me laugh so many times and thats what we all need. He was so down to earth and thats what I truly loved about him. Take care and God Bless you everyone!!
--Renee Field, Addison IL.


As an avid viewer of the CBS Morning News….I am going to truly miss Randy. His smile and quick wit was enough to get my day started. I loved watching Randy in the morning. His light heartedness…his jokes with Ed & Susan…Randy and Roseanne made a great team.

My condolences to his family and co-workers.
--Sherry A. Rogers


May god rest his sole.My condolences to his
family and friends.Randy will be missed on CBS news and I will have him in my prayers.
I was going up north to go snowmobiling this weekend and had to bail on the trip so not only did i like Randy on the news, he was also a fellow snowmobiler.
My regards,
Bob Shaver, Beach Park,Illinois


My family use to watch randy on channel 9 in the morning and when he went to channel 2 we followed him.

We watched him every morning and were very sad to hear about his passing.

His family is in our prayers and it is a very sad day for us.

He was a great guy and will be missed very much.
--Cindy, New Lenox, IL


Chills ran down my spine this morning as I heard the news of Randy's passing. He and Roseanne are a morning staple in our household from 5:15-5:45. His down to earth personality and quick wit really made for eye catching morning news. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, the CBS news team and all the viewers who will truly miss him and always remember the good times.
--Gina Passante


I have watched Randy, Roseanne, Ed and Susan every morning at 5:30 am for a long, long time. I cannot believe Randy is gone. While I never met him in person, I admired his talent and personality. I feel as though I have lost a good friend, and I will miss him terribly.
--Vern Anderson, Cary, IL


I was lucky enough to meet Randy when channel 2 did their morning show on the Anita Dee. He was so down to earth and funny. Such a great personality and seemed like a very family oriented guy. I loved inviting him, Roseanne, Susan, and Ed into my morning every morning as I sipped my coffee. I will deeply miss him and offer my condolences to his family and also to all of his coworkers at channel 2. It is obvious what a close knit team they are. He will be deeply missed.
--Leslie Eberwein


I was a channel 9 news watcher but followed Randy over to 2. I loved watching him, he was informative and funny. He seemed like such a normal guy, and now that I hear more about him, what you see was what you got. My condolences to his family, his friends, his collegues during this very difficult time.
--Vicki


I worked with Randy at Channel 9 for 10 years. I never think of him without smiling. That was his gift. He died too soon, and too young, and it is so hard to believe. But, he lived life to the fullest, and he loved the life he lived. How many of us can truly say that? He and his family are in my prayers.
--Anonymous


Deepest sympathies,
He was the main reason i always turned to your station in the morning,(and through out the day).
There was no one who was as quick witted and sharper than Randy. He was always on. The very best to his family. He will be extremely missed. Thanks Randy.
--Gregory A Look


To all CBS 2 staff,
I heard the breaking news this morning and thought I was hearing wrong. Not Randy! What a loss....Randy made me a news watcher. I had no interest in the news until you grouped together the morning news group. A great group they are. Without him, I am sad to say it will never be the same. Although I did not know him, I feel as though it is a personal loss for him and his family. I will never forget when Randy came on and said..."good morning I'm Rozanne T." So funny...never a morning without saying out loud..."He is a riot!" He was a great news anchor and will be missed by all that we lucky enough to spend their mornings with him. I am so sorry for your loss. Please send our sympathy to the staff as well as his family as you are all in our prayers.
Thank you,
The Allen Family


I am a CNN and MSNBC news watcher except for my morning news. The first thing I thought this morning was "where's Randy today?" I watched the news because he gave a lift to my upcoming stressful day. His wit and sarcasm mirrors mine and thus I found a kindred spirit with him. My deepest condolences go to his wife and children. He will be missed.
--Robin Guthridge, Berkeley, IL


Randy was always the perfect way to start my weekday mornings. Just the right touch of nice guy and yet a bit of sass. There's nothing worse than a "perky" morning person. I will miss him deeply. My mornings just won't be the same.

My heart goes out to his wife and children, CBS Chicago and to all the rest of us who will miss his smile and wit.
--Susan M. Follmer


I was shocked to hear about Randy. I want to send my heart felt sorrow to his wife and childern.
I enjoyed watching Randy in the mornings. He was a down to earth kind of guy. It will be hard to replace him. Again my deepest sympathy to his family.
Sincerely,
Brenda


my lord, how could this horrid accident happen????????????????
my tears my extreme sorrow upon this awful preventable tragedy!!!!!!!!
crying for his family!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
life shall be more precious for me as i enter this new day.
--lrm


My husband and I were devastated this morning to learn of Randy's tragic passing. We wake up to Randy and Roseanne every morning, almost as if they are a part of our family. Randy was always able to keep us well-informed while putting smiles on our faces. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and colleagues. He will be greatly missed by his viewers.
Regretfully,
Carly Pagano, Geneva, IL


My husband and I were fortune enough to be a part of breakfast at Melllium Park. Randy and Roseanne were interviewing Mayor Daley, I was in the background, Randy saw me, and he gently moved me to the front so I could see. He and Roseanne mingled and joke with the crowd and made us all feel like a part of the Channel 2 Morning show.
--Pat Kaduk


I started my morning each day with the Channel 2 news and of course Randy Salerno was a great part of that morning. He addressed each news story in a precise and forthright way. Even today as we found out the sad news it was a different start to millions of viewers morning. His jovial nature and fine reporting will be missed.
--Pat Speaker


My mornings will not be the same, I watch channel 2 news in the morning because Randy, Roseanne, Ed and Susan all click together so wonderfully. I am truly saddened after hearing of his passing .And will miss his sense of humor.
--Tammy Alsman, Portage, IN


I was totally shocked to hear of the tragic death of Randy Salerno. He is one of the reasons my husband and I watched Channel 2. He was always in a good mood and you could tell he really enjoyed his job and working with the rest of the Channel 2 news team. We loved his interaction with Susie, Ed, and Roseann. We also enjoy Chris Habbermill.

Please express our sympathy to his family and let them know he will truly be missed.
--Sandi Kawanna


My husband told me of the sad news this morning that Randy died. He heard it on the radio as it was first reported. I couldn't believe it! He was so young and a vital part of the Chicago CBS2 news! We always enjoyed his reporting and the camaraderie with his fellow anchors. He will be missed. I want to extend my deepest condolences to his family. I'll be praying for God to comfort them in the difficult days to come.
Sincerely,
Marlene Story


I LOVED watching him on morning T-V. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
--Anonymous


How sad to hear of the passing of Randy. He was a joy to listen to in the morning. It was hard to drive to work with misty eyes. Our condolences to the Salerno family and the CBS morning team. Randy will be greatly missed.
--The Griffin Family

What sadness for Irene and their 3 children, all viewers and his co-workers, I can't imagine how they will go on with the show. Literally my heart stopped this morning when Vince made the announcement, and the tears are still flowing freely, I am so very sorry to hear this.

I will pray for solace for his family and co-workers.

My favorite memory of him. He was eating a donut while walking behind a group of Latino dancers who were kicking up their heels for exercise. He had it all!

Sincerely,
--Judy Treend, Batavia



It is with great sadness that I write this note...I will miss Randy greatly. I woke up every morning to Randy's newscasts. I loved his realism, his humor and his sarcasm. He was a true Chicago treasure. Some news personalities become part of your family as they deliver the good and the bad news. Randy was a part of my family. Please pass on my sincere condolences to his family. I grieve with them over the tragic loss of this special man.
--Carol Dunn


This can't be real! Randy, along with the CBS 2 morning team, are like my coffee in the morning I have to have them in order to function. Randy was a wonderful breath of fresh air and as well as eye candy! He is greatly loved and adored. We will love him always!!
Love,
Nerissa Marshall


He was the pride of Northwest McHenry County and Crystal Lake.

He always made everyone smile and had the best wit of anyone on TV.

I will miss seeing him everyday along side Roseanne, what a great team.
--Vince Virzi


What sad news. I will certainly miss Randy Salerno. His sense of humor and style helped make the show the best local news-general interest show of any time of day.

Two of his quips spring to mind-

To the reporter doing a remote from Shedd Aquarium: "Don't forget to bring me back some salmon."

To a travel writer, after a discussion of jet-set vacations to places like Monte Carlo and the French Riviera, in a tone hopeful of acceptance: "We're going to the Dells."

A guy that comes up with stuff like that (perfectly delivered, to boot) is just not replaceable.
--Mike Weinert


To the Salerno Family,
Randy will be greatly missed. We will miss seeing him at the baseball diamonds. I can remember last baseball season, Randy out on the mound pitching to his sons team. He being so tall, he had to kneel down to get the pitches to the kids. Our thoughts and prays are with you.
--The Glosson Family


Its soo sad to here this this morning. Although I don't know him personally The people that do the news come into our homes each and every day and we rely on each of you to give precise news coverage and Randy did just that. May God be with him and his family. We'll miss you.
--Audra L Howard


I am deeply sadden to hear of the passing of Randy, he was such a breath of fresh air in the morning. My deepest condolence to his family. We will truly miss his witty presents. Getting ready in the morning without Randy's voice in the back ground will be very odd. Again, I am very, very sorry to hear such horrible news...
Sincerely,
--Margaret Skiba


I was deeply saddened to hear about Randy. I never met him but enjoyed watching him on Channel 9 news and then on Channel 2. I loved his wit and sarcasm...........I would like to offer my condolences to his wife and children and to his colleagues. He will be missed. I am so sorry .
--Cathy Loughran


Followed him over from Channel 9. He was soooo funny. I'll miss him.
--Marisa Amore Tomala


Just wanted to express condolences to Randy Salerno's family and collegues. I can only imagine the pain - since without knowing him personally I feel very sad about his passing. He came across as professional and personable.
--Claudia M., Woodridge


The Chicago marketplace has lost a true journalistic gem with the passing of Randy. My wife and I enjoyed the morning broadcast religiously since relocating back to Chicago three years ago. Randy and Roseanne had the ability to deliver all of the necessary news, with a skillful balance of professionalism and wit. Having been a part of the channel 2 sales team back in the 80's, I know how difficult the loss of a peer and friend is for the entire staff. Keep up the great work, with just a little bit of a smile on your faces…Randy would have wanted it that way.
--John and Diane Lee, La Grange


Randy was my absolute favorite person on CBS2 Morning news! He was quirky, witty, and made me giggle all of the time. I will miss him very much, and it is a shame we will never be able to be enlightened by him again. A relative of mine also died in a snow mobile accident, and I know the confusion and sadness his family feels. Rest In Peace Randy, I will miss you!
--Sara, St. Charles, IL


After hearing of Randy's death this a.m. I was so saddened.

I remember seeing him as he covered the train/school bus accident in Fox River Grove 11 years ago in our neighborhood.

He seemed like a person that really cared about the job he did and how it affected people.

Our prayers go out to all the Salerno family, his wife and children.
Thanks,
--Pam Paulsen


I loved his wit which made the news program entertainment as well as informational. My sincere sympathy goes out to the CBS 2 Family, particularly the Morning Show crew and Randy's family who must be truly devastated by this most tragic news.
--Jean Blevins

I was so shocked to hear the news. My prayers are with his family. I wish them they very best. He will be greatly missed by Chicago. Thanks Randy for making my mornings a little brighter!
--Tracie Tijerina


THE MEMORIES OF RANDY ARE :
WAKING UP IN THE MORNING AND SEE HIS PROFESSIONALISM SHINE THROUGH THE TV.

THE TV COMMUNITY AND HIS TV FAMILY WILL MISS HIM GREATLY..SYMPATHY GOES TO HIS FAMILY AND HIS TV FAMILY.
--Ed and Leah


what a great loss, i woke up with the news team monday to friday and felt you all were like family. randy swayed me to switch from wgn to cbs as well as rozanne and kept me well informed and laughing. it will not be the same, very sad.

he had a pleasant and easy way to express the news while remaining professional, a talent not to be measured.

my heart goes out to his family and friends, with my prayers to all.

peace!
--jeremy and niki h., plainfield, il


An incredible anchor who had a dry sense of humor, calm and confident individual. He was indeed an asset to CBS2 and I will certainly miss him. May God comfort his family in the days ahead.
--Percenia Hill


I am so saddened by the passing of Randy Salerno.

I can only think of the fun times and laughter with his co-workers on the air every morning. We watched every morning as my fiancee and I woke at 4:30 am and put on channel 2 News.

May God Keep Him Close and Near For All Eternity.

He will be missed, we will Pray for him, his Family and his Family at Channel 2 news. God Bless Randy Salerno.

When someone leaves us in such a way, it is probably something he Enjoyed doing. This can be the only comfort we can take at the moment.

Very Respectfully Yours,
--Chris Lambos & Toni Adduci, Lansing


I'm so sorry to hear about Randy. He was part of my morning routine.My sympathies go out to his wife and kids. I'll miss his personality and his humor. How Sad!! --Ted Wollnik St. Charles, IL


The first thing every morning at 5 Am I tuned into watch Randy and Roseanne.
His sense of humor and his comments made him real and down to earth news anchor
He will be missed but never forgotten - and this is a great loss to his family and Chicago.
God Bless the Salero Family and his extended family @ channel 2.
--Janine Costello


I am in shock. I was Randy's first News Director at WIFR-TV in Rockford, Il. Randy was very talented and he never forgot his roots. He was a genuinely nice person who will be missed by everyone who knew him.
--Arles Hendershott, Rockford


To the CBS morning team,
My family wakes up every morning with you. Randy's wit and banter will be missed.

Stay strong.
--Van, Chelsea and Gavin


CBS,
I am so saddened to hear about Randy's death. About 3 months ago I started watching the morning news and it was Randy's humor and rapport with the other CBS morning people that kept me tuned in at 6:00 am. In fact this morning I was disappointed that Randy wasn't on.

Please extend my condolences to his family. He brightened my morning and I will really miss him.
--Francesca


Please send my condolences to everyone who worked with him, and to his family. How tragic!!! He will be missed.
--The Kane's of Lockport


I can't believe this - he will be so missed!!! I really enjoyed watching the morning news with Randy and Roseann - I am in shock!
--Joyce827


I am so sorry to hear about Randy. I was just wondering where he was. Sorry for your loss Channel 2.
--Dee Fase, Lombard


Just wanted to send my condolences to your staff and Randy's family. I could not believe the tragic news when I heard it on the radio. He really grew on me and I loved his humor. He will be sorely missed. God Bless.
--Carol Walters, Channahon


To all of the CBS Morning News:
I am heavily saddened by the news of Randy's death. My heart and prayers go out to you and Randy's family. He will be sorely missed. Your morning news team is part of my daily ritual. Randy will always be in my heart.
Sincerely,
Diane Donnelly, Orland Park


Our deepest sympathy to Randy Salerno's family and the CBS2 Chicago family. We are avid watchers of the CBS2 Morning show from 5:30am until approx. 7:00am while getting ready for work and school. We were shocked to hear the news this morning about the accident. Please know that many viewers, including us, are thinking about you and Randy's family.
--Valerie Ottinger, Streamwood


I am very sorry to hear about Randy Salerno, I watched him and Rosanne when they were on channel 9;and followed them to channel 2. They were such a good team, they acted as if they were brother and sister.
Please pass on my condolences to everyone there at Channel 2 and to his family
--Maureen Riley, Evanston


I was at work this morning when I heard the extremely sad news about Randy. The morning show is my favorite...it always feels like family and this loss feels the same. Thought and prayers to you all and to his very young family.
--Shawn Brennan, Round Lake


We will all miss Randy's smart humor and correct information.
--Earl Harrington


I am shocked..... absolutely shocked when I just heard the news that Randy Salerno died last night.

I watched him every morning, and actually HE was the biggest reason I watched Channel 2 - I just loved his personality... his smirk... his sarcasm. He was just a "real guy"... in a suit!

I live in Cary, just "down the road" from Crystal Lake where Randy and his family lived. Cary is very small, and so I'm in Crystal Lake all the time..... I somewhat kinda mentally bonded with Randy, knowing he was a "local guy".

My heartfelt condolences to his family, and to his many friends and colleagues at CBS. I too, share in your loss.

I don't know what else to say....

I'm SO sorry.... I will miss him...
--Mary Ann Knepper, Cary

Sorry for your loss. I just heard the news about Randy Salarno. I just had to send a quick note saying sorry for your loss. I loved watching him. I liked the relationship he has with Rosanne T. That was one of the reasons I liked watching channel 2 news in the morning. Again sorry for your loss.
--Mary Jo, Countryside

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