Deaths on January 13

Frank Fixaris, American journalist and sportscaster (b. 1934)

Frank Fixaris, born on May 6, 1934, in Torrington, Connecticut, and passing away on January 13, 2006, in Falmouth, Maine, was a highly esteemed American media personality whose career profoundly impacted the broadcasting landscape of Maine. Renowned for his versatility, he excelled as a sportscaster, television anchor, field reporter, and disc jockey, dedicating the predominant part of his illustrious career to WGME-TV, the CBS affiliate in Portland, Maine. Beyond his extensive television work, Fixaris extended his reach into radio, notably co-hosting a popular morning show alongside Dave "Shoe" Schumacher on WJAB. This enduring program, aptly named "The Morning Jab," continues to air today, with Dave Schumacher maintaining his role alongside current co-host Joe Palmieri, a testament to its sustained popularity and the foundational work of Fixaris.

The Enduring Legacy of Frank Fixaris: A Maine Broadcasting Icon

Fixaris's journey into broadcasting began with a strong academic foundation. He pursued higher education in Boston, Massachusetts, a hub for communications studies, and graduated from the prestigious Emerson College in 1956. Emerson College is widely recognized for its robust programs in communication and the arts, providing Fixaris with a comprehensive background in media. Following his graduation, he honed his skills at various radio stations early in his career, gaining invaluable experience in live broadcasting and audience engagement. This foundational radio work paved the way for his pivotal transition to television in 1965 when he joined WGME-TV, then known as WGAN-TV, as a sports anchor. He remained a central figure at the station until 1995, becoming a household name across Maine. His leadership qualities were quickly recognized, leading to his appointment as sports director in 1967, a position he held until 1992. This dual role underscored his comprehensive understanding of sports journalism, from on-air delivery to editorial direction. Interestingly, Frank Fixaris shared a familial connection with another notable sports figure; his cousin, Jimmy Piersall, a former Major League Baseball player known for his storied career with teams like the Boston Red Sox, also ventured into sportscasting, creating a unique family legacy in the realm of sports media.

A Voice for Maine Sports: Hockey Commentary and Community Dedication

Frank Fixaris's deep passion for sports was particularly evident in his role as a color commentator for professional hockey teams in Maine. He served as the analytical voice for the Maine Mariners and subsequently the Portland Pirates, both prominent teams in the American Hockey League (AHL). As a color commentator, Fixaris provided insightful analysis, strategic observations, and often anecdotal context that enriched the play-by-play commentary, bringing the nuances of the game to life for his audience. His expertise and engaging style made him a beloved figure among hockey fans. Despite receiving attractive offers from national networks, including CBS, and opportunities with prominent teams like the New York Islanders, Fixaris steadfastly chose to remain in Maine. This decision underscored his profound loyalty to the local community and his dedication to covering sports at a regional level, where he felt he could make the most significant impact. His exceptional work in sports broadcasting did not go unnoticed on a national stage. In 1978, he was honored with one of the prestigious James H. Ellery Memorial Awards by the AHL, an accolade recognizing outstanding media coverage and promotion of the league. To further commemorate his extensive contributions to hockey in the region, particularly his long association with the Mariners and Pirates, the press box at the Cumberland County Civic Center, now known as the Cross Insurance Arena, was officially named in his honor, serving as a permanent memorial tribute to his enduring legacy in Maine sports.

Accolades, Tributes, and Lasting Influence

Frank Fixaris's remarkable career and unwavering commitment to broadcasting were widely acknowledged. In 2006, he was posthumously inducted into the Maine Association of Broadcaster's Hall of Fame, a prestigious recognition of his significant achievements and lasting impact on the broadcasting industry within the state. His memory is also honored annually through a special award issued by the Portland Fire Department, reflecting his connection to the community beyond sports. Furthermore, his dedication to fostering new talent in the field is celebrated through two distinct scholarships awarded to students pursuing communication science at Saint Joseph's College of Maine, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations of media professionals. His influence extended even to the local sporting community; The Fix Cup, a former annual high school hockey tournament held in Portland, was named in his honor. This tournament, notably modeled after the renowned Beanpot tournament—a highly celebrated collegiate hockey tournament in Boston involving four major universities—underscored Fixaris's profound connection to and support for local youth sports. He was widely recognized for his encyclopedic knowledge across all sports, with a particular depth of understanding for local athletics. This extensive factual recall and analytical prowess made him a unique resource for sports enthusiasts and aspiring broadcasters alike. Many prominent broadcasters, including legendary hockey voice Mike Emrick, well-known Boston sports radio personality Dale Arnold, veteran New England sports reporter Tom Caron, seasoned sports anchor Scott Wykoff, and acclaimed reporter J.J. Jeffrey, have publicly credited Fixaris as being instrumental in their professional development, highlighting his invaluable mentorship and profound influence on their careers.

FAQs About Frank Fixaris

Who was Frank Fixaris?

Frank Fixaris was a highly respected American sportscaster, anchor, reporter, and disc jockey, best known for spending the majority of his career at WGME-TV in Portland, Maine, and co-hosting "The Morning Jab" radio show on WJAB.

What was Frank Fixaris known for?

He was renowned for his encyclopedic knowledge of sports, particularly local Maine sports, his distinctive voice as a hockey color commentator for the Maine Mariners and Portland Pirates, his dedication to the Maine broadcasting community by rejecting national offers, and his mentorship of numerous successful broadcasters.

Where did Frank Fixaris work for most of his career?

Frank Fixaris spent the majority of his career as a sports anchor and director at WGME-TV (formerly WGAN-TV) in Portland, Maine, from 1965 to 1995. He also co-hosted a popular morning radio show on WJAB.

Remembering a Legend: Frank Fixaris's Passing

Frank Fixaris's life came to a tragic end on January 13, 2006, when he died in a fire at his home. He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara, and their son, Michael. His brother, Richard, passed away in December 2013. Frank Fixaris is laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Portland, Maine. His passing marked a significant loss for the Maine broadcasting community and sports enthusiasts across the region, but his unparalleled contributions and lasting legacy continue to be celebrated and remembered through the various tributes, awards, and the enduring impact he had on the many lives he touched.