Jan 29, 2008 12:24 pm US/Central
Viewers' Comments On Randy Salerno - Part 14
Viewers share their thoughts and memories of CBS 2 Morning anchor Randy Salerno, who passed away in a snowmobiling accident late Thursday night.
To the Salerno family, I was deeply saddened to hear of Randy's passing. I had the pleasure of working with Randy in Albany. He was one of the BEST people I can say that I've ever worked with. I can also appreciate how competitive he was having spent many days on either the basketball court or on the links with him, while he was here. I am proud to be able to say that Randy was a friend. He will certainly be missed. To everyone in the Midwest cherish all the great memories you have of a truly wonderful person. Sal rest in peace, I'll miss ya.
--Duffer Kendrick "news photog" WNYT
Randy will be missed, but not forgotten. I watched Randy when he first started with WGN, he was funny and very likeable to watch. I looked forward to waking up to Randy and WGN each day. I guess heaven needed a great news anchor up there.
My heart goes out to his family, please know that you're in my prayers.
--SVK
There were mornings I would laugh out loud, on my way to work remembering some nutty thing Randy had said or done. There were many mornings I would be late leaving for work because you were all being so silly I had to stay and see what would happen next! I remember tuning in at Christmas and everyone was off except Randy! I was so happy to see him!!
Because I never knew Randy personally, I feel like I have lost something and I can't find it! He had a "regular guy" approach to the news and I will miss his sweet smile and great sense of humor every day. So... Susan, Roseanne, Ed and Chris, I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. Keep us laughing in his memory, you are special to us too... My deepest sympathies to his family.
--Rita
Many prayers and blessings to Randy's family and his many friends. The loss is heavy on everyone's heart. I hope that we all feel blessed to have had him in our lives...what a joy he has been and what a wonderful lesson he has taught us all. "Live life to the fullest and love with all of your heart!"
We will remember him always...
--Michele
Dear Randy,
I will always remember you. You always seemed to make me laugh every morning. The news can be so glum but you always brought the bright side to it. I put in very long days at work and some mornings I just don't want to wake up, but listening to you and your co-workers seemed to perk me up. You will be greatly missed. Thanks for bringing joy to my mornings.
--Dotty Auriemmo
I was sad all day today. I'm not one to write in to news shows or blog, but I didn't know of another way to express my grief. I didn't know what happened until i tuned in this morning and heard the news about Randy. Randy and the morning news team have been such a special part of my morning ritual for so long that I had a hard time adjusting today to news of his passing. I started watching CBS 2 morning news last June after feeling frustrated by FOX and ESPN and became addicted to your show immediately. Randy, Roseanne, Ed, and Susan have such tremendous chemistry and energy as a team, but Randy was the catalyst that really brought the team together. I am really going to miss his laid-back style, his dry wit, and his tremendous sense of humor. I just wish there was an easy way to fill the void left with his sudden loss. Please pass along the word to his family and news crew that he will truly be missed.
--Michael
CBS2 Family, and the Salerno Family,
Words cannot express the sorrow I feel for the passing of Randy. Roseanne, Randy, Susan, and Ed were my FAB FOUR in the morning, always managing to put a smile on my face. I live in Crystal Lake and Randy was our "Crystal Lake Connection" bringing a major Chicago News Channel directly into our homes on a personal level with laughter each and every day. The broadcast today was a wonderful "Celebration" of Randy's life that brought laughter and tears. You all did an amazing job and Randy would be proud of you. My condolences go out to his wife, children, family and friends. May God grant you continued strength for the difficult days ahead and I pray that the wonderful memories help heal the holes left in your hearts. He will be forever missed.
--Jody
I watched Randy on WGN and switched to cbs2chicago when he moved. I looked forward to his broadcast and his wit. He was like having a friend in your kitchen for coffee. He will be missed.
To you Roseanne, you have lost a great friend and co-worker. You, as well as Randy's family are in my prayers.
--Kathy
I am so saddened by the death of Randy. I felt like I know him personally when as a matter of fact, I only knew him from the morning news. As I sit here and cry while watching the clips of different news casts and read the emails from other friends, viewers and co-workers, I wish I had known him personally. I am so impressed with how many lives he has touched….I know he touched mine and made my early mornings much more fun….I will miss seeing him every morning with Ed, Susan and Roseanne. I just can't imagine how you will get past this….in time I guess. Who ever comes in, will have big shoes to fill. This was the best morning show ever. He will be missed.
--Cyndi
Dear Roseanne, Susan, Ed, Bill, Kristyn, Kris and Crew,
Your tribute to Randy this morning was beautiful, you brought him such honor. It reminded me of a relay race when at the shot of the gun, the first runner takes off. Baton in his hand, he runs full speed ahead until his time to run is finished. With confidence he passes the baton to his teammates, and even though the first runner's job is done he stands there on the sideline cheering his team forward.
Thanking for coming to work today when I imagine you just wanted to stay in bed and cry, you carried the baton well. You said in today's broadcast that the many e-mails have comforted you. I want you to know that by appearing as a team on the show today, you in actuality have comforted us. May God be with you all in the next difficult days ahead.
--Pam Ross
Aloha to the mornig news team, Randy's wife & children, parents, brother, & sister,
I wanted to say that I have always enjoyed Randy's sense of humor in the morning while I was getting ready for work. His quick wit would make me laugh and put me in a good mood to deal with my 4th grade kids. It also helped me deal with my 32 mile commute from Oswego to Elmhurst everyday. Know that my prayers are with you and may God give you the comfort and peace to endure and move on to new things and continue to live with happiness and peace that I think Randy would want you to. Know that I will continue to offer prayers for you as the days go on particularly for your children. Take care and may God Bless All of You.
Mahalo
--Jim Hartnett
I haven't seen Randy in person since we were kids, but loved to watch him in the morning. The silly memory of Randy that I have is of being at his house, and his brother, sister and my two sisters were all playing around and I started singing the "Salerno butter cookie" song. In a few minutes we were all singing that song and cracking up. Dumb kid stuff, but it gave me a chuckle when I remembered it. I am just sick at what has happened. My heart goes out to his parents, his siblings, his wife and his children, along with his CBS family. The kind of person he was came shining through the TV. You can tell he had a good upbringing along with his fantastic sense of humor. Mornings will never be the same. I know we all feel a little blessed to have been able to share our mornings with Randy. I know what it is like to have to tell your child that daddy went to heaven. I will keep his children (and his whole family) in my prayers.
With Love and Light
--Julie Blakeman Dodge
So very few people actually live the American Dream. A job you love, beautiful family, good friends, and balance of all three. Randy not only did this, but made people laugh along the way. While his life may have been cut short, his legacy lives on. The world could be a better place if we took a lesson in the way Randy led his life.
SAIL ON SALERNO
--Anonymous
To Randy's Family and the CBS news team: We wish to express our deepest sympathy on the untimely death of Randy. He was a wonderful Son, Husband, Father, Uncle, Friend and a great asset to the CBS morning news. He will be missed greatly. Be brave in your sorrow as he would have wanted all of you to be.
--The Saviano Family
I don't know how Roseanne goes to work everyday. I wish I could make all her pain go away. Please don't be in a hurry to fill Randy's place. All of Chicago has lost a best friend. I know I did!
--John
I enjoyed seeing Randy Salerno in the morning, he made me laugh when I was down and out. We lost my father-in-law just over a month ago and seeing the empty chair reminded me when we had dinner on xmas with his chair empty at the head of the table.
I will miss his sense of humor during the morning getting my daughter ready for school.
My prays are with the family and friend of Randy.
--Tom Thorpe and Family
Thanks to all of you for making our day start out great---I guess that person upstairs (or as he is more commonly known God) needed him more! He will be missed.
--The Williams Family.
DEAR CBS COLLEAGUES OF RANDY,
GOOD MORNING FROM OTTAWA, IL., LOCATED 90 MILES SW OF CHICAGO. I BEGAN MY DAY, CLICKING ON THE T.V., AND GREETING RANDY AND ROSEANN. WHAT A GUY! HE JUST SPREAD HIS WARMTH AND WIT ACROSS THE SCREEN. HIS INFECTIOUS SMILE AND PERSONALITY SPREADING SUCH JOY IN THE HEARTS OF ALL WHOSE LIVES HE TOUCHED. MY HEARTFELT SYMPATHIES ARE SENT TO HIS FAMILY.
WE APPRECIATE ALL OF THE EFFORTS OF RANDY'S CO-WORKERS WHO EXPRESSED THEIR MEMORIES, OF TIMES SHARED WITH HIM, FOOTAGE OF EVENTS THAT BROUGHT A SMILE TO OUR FACE. I CRIED WHEN THE TRAGIC NEWS CAME, FEELING LIKE A MEMBER OF MY FAMILY HAD LEFT THIS EARTH. GOD SPEED RANDY!
SINCERELY,
MARY K. KENNEDY
OTTAWA, IL.
I moved to Chicago from Bloomington, Indiana two years ago and immediately enjoyed watching Randy Salerno's friendliness, sense of humor and down to earth personality - it reminded me of Hoosier Hospitality.
I think Jimmy Buffet was singing about people with Randy Salerno's personality when he sang "Bring back the magic, don't make life so tragic".
--Jenni Fogelberg
I feel like I lost a long time friend, even though, we never met. His smile and humor will not be forgotten.
Randy, your passing has taught me to enjoy one day at a time, and with a smile. Randy, always had an uplifting charisma, about him.
He was truly gifted, in so many ways.
--J Murphy
Randy we loved you. You could always put a smile on our faces. Looked forward to seeing what witty thing you would come up with next. We feel like we've lost a friend...you are missed dearly Randy.
--Mary and Frank Espinosa
I wish you all at CBS and Randy's family strength and faith to get through this very difficult time.
I feel like Randy was a dear friend of mine, however we have never met. Every morning I would get up and watch Randy and you all, I cant stop thinking about him. He always made you laugh, and was so entertaining.
He will be Missed.
--Janice
Following Randy from WGN to CBS was a must. I had to watch the news that Randy was broadcasting. I don't know what to watch now! My condolences to Randy's family at home and at work (both CBS and WGN). Please hang in there you have our support.
--Raghed Naser
I like so many people will miss Randy but I feel that his spirit is still with us. This morning when you said that seniors will start riding free on March 17th I thought I heard Randy saying "Good thing it starts then because you know how those seniors like to go out and celebrate St. Patty's Day. At least we don't have to worry that they'll drink and drive."
--Chris Hanna
I was never a news person... it depresses me.
I do have to say once I found Randy & Roseanne on channel 2 news I was able to turn them on, and listen, then I caught myself getting up a just a little bit earlier to actually watch... I was hooked...my mornings didn't start until I heard Randy.. he is greatly missed. Our hearts go out to his family and to the news family as well.
--The Littles
Watching Randy and the gang, first thing every morning felt like breakfast with family, they are all such a great group. I miss Randy's sense of humor and his obviously large heart.
Susan, you are doing such a great job to pick up the pace without Randy, I hope you stay in this new role. You are a real pleasure in this expanded format.
--Karen Doval
I treasured early morning news with Randy and his wonderful group, he made me laugh on mornings that were difficult to go to work, the chemistry between the morning news cast was wonderful, something that happens once in a life time, that chemistry will indeed be missed. May Randy's off the air family find strength to get thru this difficult time, and may his memory give them --peace, Karen
I always considered your morning broadcast "The Happy News". I'll miss Randy's web videos. He always had me smiling about something. You won't be able to replace him, so don't try. Rosanne, Susan and Ed are doing very well as is. I'm saying prayers for Randy and his family. Keep smiling; I'm sure Randy would want it. Thanks for all the happy memories.
--Jeanne from St. Charles
I am so so sorry for the passing of Randy. My heart goes out to the family and friends. I work at a nursing home in Crown Point In, and one of the residents said in a crying voice, "he was like part of my family". I held her till she came down and thought of something else. May you rest in piece Randy and don't get to carried away up there in Heaven.
--Laura R
Everyone,
Our prayers and thoughts go out to Randy's family at both home and work. We moved to the Crystal Lake area for the reasons Randy talked about. Watching Randy every morning we felt like he was a friend and neighbor, even though we never had a chance to meet.
--Michael and Renee
I have enjoyed watching the morning show with Randy. I had the pleasure of meeting Randy and Roseanne
and the Channel 2 news family when we joined you on a morning cruise. Thanks for the memories and laughs. I hope that all of your memories will help provide comfort in the days ahead. To Randy's family and colleagues I extend my deepest heartfelt sympathies. Please remember that your loss is shared by those who care and understand.
--Maryanne
I DID NOT KNOW RANDY BUT I LET HIM COME IN MY HOUSE EVERY MORNING EITHER ON WGN OR CBS NEWS, HE MADE ME LAUGH WHEN I HAD BAD DAYS, AND I FELT I KNEW HIM. I WILL MISS HIS VOICE AND FRIENDLY FACE MOST OF ALL I WILL MISS HIM[RANDY] GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY!!!!!
--DEANEAN LAMPHIER[HOBART INDIANA]
My father once told me when I was very young that the reason we cry for the deceased is because we will miss them. When I heard about Randy an over whelming emotion of lose came over me and I cried openly. I hadn't done that for any body in 30 years. Randy was a true man's man and somebody I would like to have known personally. He and the rest of the morning crew is why I watched ever morning while getting ready for work. Good bye Randy!
--Steve Tribble, Villa Park
Randy was my favorite CBS anchor, he was a lot of fun to watch in the morning, you never knew what he was going to do next. My sympathies go out to first and foremost his wife and kids. Then to all of you who worked so closely with him. Roseanne, Ed, and Susan are real troopers, to be able to show up for work even though they are mourning their dear friend and co-worker. It really go me this morning when he chair was empty. My husband and I have shed quite a few tears for his loss, he felt like a friend even though we only knew him from the news.
Here is a little saying that has helped comfort me in the past when I have lost a loved one!
Don't be dismayed at goodbyes
A farewell is necessary before you can meet again
And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes
Is certain for those who were friends!!
--Sincerely, Lois Bentley, Serena, IL
I started watching Randy and Roseanne after the move to CBS 2 ... their chemistry and his humor made me laugh out loud every morning ..... my thoughts and prayers go to his family as well as the morning team at cbs 2 as well.
He will be greatly missed every morning in my home
--Jennifer Thomas
How do you say good bye to a ray of sun? Randy was that ray of sunshine with his wit and ability to make people laugh. To Randy's families, his wife and children, mom and dad, brother and sister, CBS and WGN, remember that the sun shines every day -- you don't see it sometimes -- but it is there. Hold that shining light in your hearts forever.
--Mary P.
I have been watching Randy since He was on WGN. I am heart sick and saddened for his family and his morning team co-workers. I will miss him in the morning but I will never forget his humor and professionalism. My prayers are with his family and co-workers. This is going to be a hard thing to get over. Randy was one of kind.
--Lorri, Crystal Lake
Every morning while getting ready for work I watch Channel 2; I was frozen in my tracks when the announcement was made at 6:57 a.m. that Randy had been killed. My mornings just wouldn't start without Roseanne & Randy. I loved them at Channel 9 and love them at Channel 2. They were my peanut butter & jelly, cookies & milk, bread & butter. Roseanne, keep your chin up -- we know you will get through this. My sincerest condolences to Randy's family, Channel 2 & Channel 9 friends.
--Deby Novoryta
I've watched Channel 2 morning news for years as I've gotten ready for work every morning. Once the team of Randy, Roseanne, Ed and Susan was in place, I knew CBS had a winning combination on their hands. Your shared camaraderie always makes me laugh. I will miss Randy. I thoroughly enjoyed his quick wit. He always came across as such a down-to-earth guy. I guess I didn't realize how much you all have become a part of my life and I am truly saddened by Randy's untimely death. He's going to be tough to replace. My sympathy goes out to all of you for losing a colleague and a friend.
Sincerely,
--Andrea Dobis
Dear CBS Family,
As I watch the newscast in the mornings, I am so moved with the way in which you are sharing Randy and his memory with us. I wish I could say something profound to help you at this difficult time but perhaps it helps to know that viewers share your grief. It truly feels like I have lost a member of my own family. Randy's quick wit and bright smile was a wonderful way to start each day and he will be deeply missed. My heart goes out to his family at home and his CBS family as well.
Sincerely,
--Jill Omansky
Dear Randy – It is so wonderful to see how many lives you touched in so many good ways. I hope that the people closest to you can continue to focus on all the incredible memories you have left. Although we are all so sad to see you go we are left with the knowledge that you lived life to the fullest and gave so much to so many. Thank you Randy for bringing so many laughs in the early morning hours before starting the work day. Now that you have connections up there – please send comforting energy to all those that are grieving you here on earth – especially to your family, friends and co-workers. God bless you Randy!
--Alicia
On July 21, 2004 I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Randy at my home in Glenview.
He was on assignment to talk to me on meeting President Bush. He came to the house and just talked for about 1/2 hour about family and enjoying our pond in our backyard. I was very nervous to be interviewed. He interviewed my daughter also. He made me so comfortable as if two friends were just sharing. On July 22, after I met the President and flew in one of the three marine helicopters , Randy came up to me and asked how was the ride?
It was awesome and we shared another moment in my life. There were 7 people that day that were present with me to share in this amazing day in my life- four of them were my family, two co workers and Randy. He made me feel blessed to have shared this day with him. Thank you Randy for sharing your life with so many people. May his family be continually blessed by his love and compassion and joy he shared with others. May his family find peace and comfort in His Lord Jesus Christ.
With great sympathy and sadness
--Nicolette Meier and family
Back in the mid-80s at ISU, Randy and I waited tables together at Bennigan's in Normal, Ill., and also worked weekends at a bar in Bloomington. Besides two jobs and a full class load, Randy was the weatherman at TV10, campus station, and I used to call him "Mr. Sunshine." I don't know if I ever met his dear friend Scott back then - maybe he came down for a weekend visit, I just don't know. I do remember Randy talking about his family and friends back in Crystal Lake and there was an extra sparkle in his eyes when we'd talk about "home." When I last saw Randy it was in the '90s upon his return to Chicago. I was pleased for his success, but mostly that he made it back home against the odds in his business. I ache at the thought of compounding this tragedy with a criminal prosecution. I can't believe Randy would have wanted that. I read all these comments and watch all these tributes I think, "Yes, that's Mr. Sunshine." It seems he remained as genuine in his days of celebrity as he was when he donned khaki pants, a green polo shirt and waiter's apron. My heartfelt sympathy to Irene, their children, Randy's parents and siblings, and Scott and his family. --Starr McCaffery
I TO JUST FEEL LIKE I HAVE LOST A PART OF MY FAMILY. I WAKE UP EVERY MORNING TO ALL OF YOU,5A.M. ,THATS HOW MY DAY HAS ALWAYS STARTED! SINCE HEARING THIS TERRIBLE NEWS . ALL I CAN DO IS THINK OF ALL OF YOU AND HIS WIFE AND CHILDERN AND WHAT A GREAAAAT LOSS THIS IS FOR YOU!I I ALSO THINK IT WAS VERY BRAVE AND A GREAT SHOW OF WHAT HE MENT TO ED,SUSAN AND ROSEANN,TO GET UP AND DO THE NEWS WITHOUT THIER DEAR FRIEND !!YOU ALL ,ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYER'S. RANDY YOUR HUMOR AND ,WIT CAN NEVER BE REPLACED!! WE WILL MISS YOU !!
--KELLY, COAL CITY IL.
I worked with Randy in Peoria at WHOI. I was just some young photographer hoping to get on the air some day and Randy was starting to be looked on as the "stud" reporter and while everyone wanted to treat him as the rising star, he never changed how he treated people.
Of course, he gave everyone grief in the best possible way. I looked about 15 years old when I worked there but Randy made me feel like part of the team by bringing out a little of my sarcasm by showing you can seem to be ripping someone to shreds with a joke but, also being a genuinely good person allows people to still flock to you.
Reporters often have "work people" for stories--basically sidling up to them as a part of the job but Randy never seemed to be doing that. He showed that you can do the job and be real--in fact he told me that it actually helps that you are not just playing the character of the TV Guy.
I have used that in my life as a sportscaster, through travels in Texas, Milwaukee and now Alabama. When people marvel at how I can be nice to everyone and still make fun of them in a loving way, I can point to working around Randy as part of all of that.
--John Pearson, Huntsville, Alabama
I so enjoyed watching Randy in the mornings, that I would switch from Channel 9 to Channel 2 just to listen to his dynamic and sincere delivery of the morning's news. He brought joy to my life, as well as to all his viewers.
My heart and prayers go out to the Salerno Family. Please know that he is with God and he will continue to protect and guide his family as he did on earth.
--Ramona Choquette
I was deeply sadden when I heard the news of Randy's death. My condolences to the entire Salerno family. I will miss hearing Randy's voice waking me up every week day morning at 6:00am. The entire morning crew was like an extended family to me. All of you along with Randy's family will be in my prayers daily.
Best Regards,
--Cynthia J Durham
I want to let you all know how much I enjoy starting my day with you. I let you into my bedroom every morning while I'm getting ready for work. I hope you know how powerful you are in the way that you touch people. You are professional but with the human, humorous, caring touch that we all experience with you. I will miss Randy as part of this great comraderie you are as a team. I loved the way Randy would say or do something that we are all thinking but without malice, just humor. I loved his deep voice. My deepest heartfelt sympathies to all of you in your tremendous loss and to his family that was just as important to him. I hope that Randy knew how much he was loved and respected.
I also want to commend all of you for doing such a wonderful job sharing your memories, thoughts and feelings with each other and your viewing audience. Once again, you have included us as you always do. It's a testimony to you as a group and for Randy. He would have loved it!
May you continue to support each other as you continue to grieve and get through this terribly painful, difficult time. You are helping all of us grieve by sharing yourselves so selflessly.
Sincerely,
Maureen
It became very clear from the first moment this team was on the air that something very special was occurring. You could tell these four people were more than coworkers that there was an honest friendship. I am going to miss is sometimes irreverant look at the news. It was like - right on Randy. My prayers go out to his wife, parents, children and family at this terrible time. His shoes will be hard to fill. --Dorothy Madej
I did not know Randy personally. However, I wake up every morning with the channel 2 news team. My husband and I are deeply saddened by Randy's untimely death. It is as if we really did know Randy personally. I think that speaks to his engaging personality. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Salerno family and Randy's morning news family. --The Careys
Hi I just wanted to express my sadness on the death of Randy Salerno. Ever since I heard it I can't beleive it. I just can't stop thinking about his family and the Co Workers that worked with him. I watched channel 2 at 6 to watch him and Roseanne and then watch channel 9 in at 7 to see who's funnier. Its a tie since Randy and Roseanne both worked for Channel 9.
He was so funny on some of his comments. I watched over the internet the one with Ed and him welcoming the White Sox. That was a classic.
My heart and prayers goes out to his wife and children.
--Elizabeth Reyes
I am still in shock about the untimely death of Randy Salerno! We always enjoyed him and will miss him dearly.
My deepest sympathy to his wife, children and family! My sympathy to all of you at CBS News......it must be very difficult to do your job with such a heavy heart! My prayers are with you all!
--Ann Marie/Chicago
To Roseanne and Staff:
I knew Randy only by association- when he covered the death, funeral and entombment of Joseph Cardinal Bernardin on WGN 11 years ago, and then later on during the newscasts there.
I learned of his tragic death on Saturday while visiting family in Ohio, and I want to assure you and Randy's family of a deluge of prayerful support and condolences during this difficult time for both the CBS2 and WGN News Families.
You can also view a tribute to him on our website:
www.chicagocatholicforum.bravehost.com He was indeed a class act- far too young to die with much more to be accomplished. May his noble soul experience the joy of immortal life and happiness.
Peace and all Good!
--Derek Abrajano, Ed.D.
My heart aches as I write this e-mail. I am mourning for all of us who have lost this great man, but I cannot find it in me to be sorrowful for the life that Randy lead.
So many people spend their life just going through the motions but Randy truly lived his life. He made us feel that we were all extended family. I guess that is why we feel such a void in his absence.
I send thoughts and prayers to Randy's entire family and extended family. May we all find comfort in the warm memories that Randy has left behind.
--Kathy
To Randy's wife Irene, his children, his parents, siblings, other relatives, and his TV families past and present, I would just like to say how deeply sorry I am for all of you. To hear about how much he loved his wife and children and life itself, it's just so sad he had to go at such a young age. To his wife and his children, remember he will look down from Heaven and keep you safe, he will always be near your heart. It will be strange not waking up to hear him and Roseanne together. Randy and Roseanne were my alarm clock. I'd turn on the TV still groggy from sleep and watch them before I had to get up and get ready for work. I couldn't believe my ears on Friday morning, when I heard a breaking news story about the accident. I am still in shock. I am a loyal viewer to CBS2's morning newscast at 5:00 a.m. and I'd like to say to Roseanne, Susan, Ed, Bill and everyone else at CBS2 how fortunate you are to have known such a fun, laid back and loving person. What a wonderful tribute you have done these past few days, at times it brought tears to my eyes. Like someone else wrote, Randy lived life to the fullest. Let this be a reminder that no one knows what tomorrow may bring. Live every day enjoying what you do and tell everyone how important they are to you. Again, my deepest sympathy to everyone, he will be greatly missed!!!
--Kathy D.
To: Roseanne, Suzy, & Ed & all of the CBS News Family.
I have never really lost a best friend / co-worker as you have. It is very oblivious how close all of you were. I have experienced death with the loss of my parents that were both fairly young. My Mother in 2004 and my Father in 2007. It leaves a void and an empty feeling, which I'm sure all of you are experiencing. Words are never easy when you loose someone dear and close. Days will get better. You have to remember how he (Randy) touched your lives, and you will always have his memories. In the days ahead you need to draw near to what ever faith you have, the Lord will heal your hurt. Obliviously the Lord had a plan for Randy, something that we can not explain or understand. The Lord obliviously was in need of a GREAT News Reporter in Heaven.
Sincerely,
Dan Smith
My thoughts and prayers are with you all, his family, wife and kids, and the WBBM family. Randy and the whole team makes getting up at 5:00 in the morning easier. I will miss his wit and humor. Mornings won't be the same without him. I pray that God will give you all strength to carry on and to keep doing the wonderful job that you do.
--Martha J. Cook
We loved watching Randy every morning. He was my reason for getting my day started. I loved his sense of humor, and the things he did to help whoever came in contact with him. Our condolences go out to
his family, especially Roseanne, Susan, Ed, Kris, and Bill. I'm sure you enjoyed working with him as much as we loved watching the goofy things he did to make us all laugh every morning!
He will be truly missed.
--Carol, Willowbrook, IL
It is still very surreal. From my own initial shock to the extreme sadness and aching sense of emptiness, I can only image what his family, his CBS 2 family, and his friends are going through at this time of sadness.
I watched Randy at Channel 9 and was immediately drawn to his quick wit, humor and kindness. I continued to watch him on Channel 2 and was fortunate enough to be included on the Anita Dee II Cruise. I will continue to keep Randy and all of you in my prayers that you can offer each other strength to come through this most difficult time.
--Pat Flynn
When Randy first came to the station a few years back, people were sending emails that were not very nice, I sent an email stating I was glad to see him on the morning news and welcome to the area. Hang in there because you can't please everyone. If people don't have something nice to say don't say it and definitely don't send nasty emails. Randy wrote back immediately thank me for my email and not to worry you can't take all of the comments to heart. I couldn't believe as busy as Randy was that he would reply so promptly and so nice. From that day forward he won my heart, respect and loyal viewer. Randy will be deeply missed.
--Pam Taber
Every morning I watch in awe how the team can have so much spunk and fun and energy so early in the morning. Its great to see personalities blend so well. You guys are an awesome team, and Randy and his sense of humor and wit and down-to-earth personality will be greatly missed. He can never be replaced, will never be forgotton and will live in our memories forever.
--Wendi Gober
I have just been so sad about Randy Salerno's untimely passing. Like most viewers, I used to watch Randy and Roseanne on WGN before we moved to Ohio. I remember we moved in Sept. 2000 and Roseanne had just had her baby and I was a new mother too, so I felt like I could relate to her. I was so glad when we moved to Ohio we could still watch them. Randy & Roseanne's chemistry together was just amazing. I only wish we could have gotten CBS2 morning news in Ohio. If I would have ever met Randy I know I would have loved him. Not only was he darling, but he was so darn funny. I have watched every memory you guys have had on your website and have just laughed and cried too! Randy's family is so beautiful and my sympathy goes out to them. I will continue to pray for strength for Randy's family and his news family, especially Roseanne! May his funny, joyful memories help ease some of our pain as everyone continues through this grieving process.
Regards from Ohio,
Lori
Randy and Roseanne in the morning is how I got ready for work. Randy's sense of humor was such a welcoming in the morning, he just started your day out on a good note. My deepest sympathy to his family and his colleagues. He will be missed not only by those folks but also by us the public who watched him daily. --Sara
My husband and I moved here three years ago from northern California. We didn't know very many people and got home sick pretty quick. I am disabled and am not a very good morning person but was up one morning when my husband was getting ready for work. He had turned on CBS 2 news and I started watching it. I loved the way you all were like a family and laughed when you made a mistake. Randy's humor was so spontaneous and the way Roseanne always got a kick out of it was like they were brother and sister. From that first day on we were hooked we have watched every day since. In fact we wake up on the weekend and put on the channel 2 and are so bum out we can't wait until Monday. I didn't know Randy but getting to watch you all every day has been a privilege into a small part of your lives too. Thank you all for your honest way of doing the news and all the fun that not only do you have but let us your viewers have with you
Thank you Randy and all of you for being our sub. family
--Mike and Sherry
My condolences to all the family; the wife, kids, parents & siblings. My thoughts & prayers to all of you & including his morning family at CBS 2 news. I watched you every morning getting ready for work between 5-6:15am and I loved the fun you all had & you made me laugh. I loved a few times when Randy would tease Susan about her "drinking wine" & making fun of her loving cats & teasing Ed now & then. He will really be missed & I know it will not be the same anymore; but just as long as he is in our hearts. Maybe you can put together all the fun clips you have been having on a DVD we can buy and when we think or miss him can play back the funny things he did & said & make our sadness go away.
When you lose someone all you can do is "Day by Day" & have faith in God. He will get you though anything.
;)
--Darlene
What a wonderful person he must have been and his smile will live forever. A joy to watch while he was working; I will miss him on the morning news. My prayers are with his family and co-workers.
--Molly C. Cox
CBS 2 Team/Salerno Family:
I work from home quite often and have CBS on throughout the day. I reflect now and realize how I really took Randy's wit and humor for granted, but also his high sense of commitment to providing a great newscast. I still cannot believe we have lost such a wonderful broadcaster and man. His dedication to not just his job but his lovely family he rightfully boasted about will truly be a missed treasure, but I find happiness knowing he shared his life with millions of people every day.
--Adam Reidel
Randy's among angels now.
Peace be to Randy's family and his family at CBS
He will be missed!
--Bruce
I am very sorry for the loss of Randy -- he was a great guy, an excellent news reporter -- I will pray for his family, with my family.
--The Yanez Family, Niles, Ill.
I did not know and have not known Randy for too long, only since returning from Pennsylvania. Since returning and looking at the 11 A.M. new with Randy Salerno, I did not want to miss the news, no matter what I was doing. His sense of humor and laughter on the news helped to make it possible for me to get through the day with laughter. He will truly be missed by this senior who is old enough to be his mom. I am praying for his family who has lost their loved one way too soon.
Love, Clem
I don't have any personal memories of Randy but every morning he me gave great joy. He will now be in my prayers and thoughts everyday. My condolences to his family.
--Eileen Benner
I remember the first day Randy appeared on the morning news. I thought what a smart a--. But you know that's what Randy did the best. His comments always caused some kind of thinking on the viewer's part. I will miss the laughter, the jokes and yes the great mistakes he made. What a waste. I guess God needed him in heaven. Take care "Morning Team" , my prayers are with you all and of course Randy's family.
God bless you all
--Bev M
I had the fortunate experience of meeting Randy, I was a bit star struck at first, there in front of me was the man I watch on TV (all 6' 6'' of him). The nervousness quickly faded when he spoke to me in his big kind voice, and I realized quickly this he was just a genuine kind man, husband, and father. From that day on I was a Randy Salerno fan not just for his news anchor abilities anymore, but for the realness that he possessed.
My thoughts go out to his family and co-workers. How truly blessed we all were to have him in our lives whether it was knowing him personally or watching him every morning on TV.
--Katy
I live in Crystal Lake, my children went to school with 1 of Randy's children last year. I have been in a daze since I heard the news. I haven't sent my condolences because I don't know what to say that hasn't already been said and saying I am so sorry to his family, to CBS and WGN just doesn't seem like enough.
How horribly tragic this loss is. I am so very, very sorry to everyone who knew him. To know of him, was to love him.
Please, leave the video clips on the website past tomorrow. It is so wonderful to watch them. What a wonderful, wonderful man this was.
--A.J.
"In My Father's House there are many rooms."
--Keith Myers, Indianapolis, Indiana
Like many people I have never meet Randy, but like thousands, probably millions feel a true saddness in the tragic loss of Randy Salerno. As many have attested Randy had a great personality. He was humurous, quit witted and most of all down to earth. He also came through to me as a newsman built for the 21st century. He could be professional and trustworthy as he delivered the people of Chicago the serious part of the news. Whether it was breaking news or the days hard news stories in the grace and dignity of such Chicago news greats as Bill Kurtis, Joel Daly and late Fahey Flynn. But with his light hearted antics and great personality he was perfect for morning and mid-day news. I believe with he could of ascended to the levels of Matt Lauer or Katie Couric if he desired. But I believe from what many have said that Randy was truly happy with where he was. You cannot get much better than having your dream job with a wife and children you love 10 times more than that dream job. I am truly saddened and feel a loss. I cannot even begin to comprehend the feelings his wife and young children are experiencing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them.
--Kevin and Jennifer Jacob
Our prayers are with Randy and his family.
Mom and I watch our friends every morning at 5 am. They always bring a smile to our faces. Even when I'm on my way to work, Mom will always call me and tell me about the funny antics everyone is doing when I leave. Although, its sad to have him past, it was our pleasure being able to share in the precious memories we now have.
--Dena & Linda (mom)
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