Studs Terkel Dies

Louis Terkel arrived here as a child from New York City and in Chicago found not only a new name but a place that perfectly matched--in its energy, its swagger, its charms, its heart--his own personality. They made a perfect and enduring pair.

Author-radio host-actor-activist and Chicago symbol Louis "Studs" Terkel died today at his Chicago home at age 96.

At his bedside was a copy of his latest book, "P.S. Further Thoughts From a Lifetime of Listening," scheduled for a November release.

Beset in recent years by a variety of ailments and the woes of age, which included being virtually deaf, Terkel's health took a turn for the worse when he suffered a fall in his home two weeks ago.

It is hard to imagine a fuller life.

Keep reading Rick Kogan's obituary for Studs Terkel in the Tribune.

Read Huffington Post Chicago blogger Edward Lifson's recent interview with Studs on the 2008 election.

Watch this compilation of Studs discussing work, politics, art and his career (h/t Progress Illinois):

Comments

[ericmiami]

I grew up with "Working" and "Hard Times' and "The Good War." Studs was brilliant.

[gwr72]

One of the great honors of my life was meeting Studs. He interviewed
people from the Navajo Nation, who came to Chicago to talk about the
plight of the Navajos during the 70's and 80's. His interest and kindness
to these people was so genuine. Truly a great humanitarian, and
remarkable life.

[Mannock]

So near, yet so far. If only he had lived another five days.

I toast a truly great man. He certainly will be missed.

[groucho]

Oh, damn. Now Studs, I'll miss you so much. Thanks for all your wonderful work and wisdom, and most of all humor.
Studs, Carlin, why couldn't they at least have seen Obama win before going to ???????????????

[MovingtoNorway]

A great man. RIP

[GreatFutureForAll]

He made our lives richer. He entertained us with his mind.

[Voter1151]

A true pioneer and Chicagoan. He will be sorely missed but his soul will be in Chicago forever. God bless Studs and his family.

[histryteacher]

America has lost one of its greatest historians.

[kevinem2]

So sad he couldn't live long enough to see Barack elected...I'm sure that would have put a smile on his face.

[Smirk]

I was wondering just the other day if Mr. Terkel was still alive. Sad to hear he won't live to see the election's outcome.

[Bitsko]

We'll always have his terrific books and tapes of his pioneering radio show. And his fun performance as a cynical newspaperman in John Sayles' Eight Men Out. R.I.P., Mr. Terkel.

[chefrasta]

A great American R.I.P AND God bless

[Bitsko]

"My epitaph? My epitaph will be 'Curiosity did not kill this cat.'"

--Studs Terkel

[publanski]

R.I.P. to a true American Hero. Your intelligence and heart will be missed.

[Shadow08]

A hero of mine for many many, many years. America has lost part of Her soul with his passing.

[djh-sf]

Farewell, you'll be missed but remembered.

[Cynth]

Stud's works have helped many of us to become more insightful and thoughtful Americans. Rest in peace and praise.