One of the big names of Milwaukee radio is stepping down.

Tom Joerres ending a long radio run

Published July 8, 2010 at 12:40 p.m.

One of the most important behind-the-scenes names in Milwaukee radio, Tom Joerres, says he's retiring at the end of August.

Joerres is president and general manager of Saga Communications Milwaukee Radio Group, which includes WKLH-FM (96.5), WHQG-FM (102.9), WJMR-FM (98.3), WZBK-FM (106.9) and WJYI-AM (1340.)

In the announcement of his retirement, he jokes that its "his graduation" after a radio career that began in 1977 as an account executive for WOKY-AM (920).

During his tenure, he oversaw the creation of top morning shows hosted by Dave Luczak and Carole Caine on WKLH, and Bob and Brian on WHQG, better known as "The Hog."

While the search is on for a permanent replacement, Saga Communications Senior Vice President Warren Lada will fill in.

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