Fargo-Moorhead Radio Icons Haney and Gunderson Retire After Decades on Air

After decades of delivering news to the Fargo-Moorhead community, renowned radio personalities Don Haney and Dan Gunderson are set to retire. Haney will conclude his career at KFGO this Friday, while Gunderson will step away from Minnesota Public Radio on October 30, 2023. Their departures mark the end of an era for local journalism in the Red River Valley.

Decades of Service and Community Engagement

Both Haney and Gunderson have become trusted voices for listeners, particularly during challenging weather events. From blizzards to flooding, their familiar tones have provided crucial information and comfort. Haney, 72, began his broadcasting journey nearly 50 years ago in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. He fondly recalls his early days working at a station in Grafton, North Dakota, where he met his wife, Deb, in 1975.

In 1982, Haney joined WDAY Radio, sharing a building with legendary TV news figures like Marv Bossart and Dewey Bergquist. He moved to KFGO in 1995, becoming one of the station’s most respected voices. News Director Paul Jurgens praised Haney, calling him “the premier broadcaster I’ve ever worked with.”

Among the numerous stories Haney has covered, the Flood of 1997 remains particularly significant. He recalls the long hours and emotional moments shared with volunteers trying to protect homes from rising waters. “We slept here (at the station) many times,” he said. “It’s something we’ll never forget.”

Throughout his career, Haney faced both challenges and dangers while reporting. One harrowing incident occurred during an apartment shooting when a man emerged with a military rifle. “I started yelling, ‘Get out of here!’ and ‘Hit the ground!’” Haney recounted. Another memorable moment involved a snowstorm during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests in 2016, where his truck slid down a hill toward a crowd. Fortunately, no one was injured, although Haney broke his arm after falling on the ice.

Crafting Stories and Building Trust

On the other side of the river in Moorhead, Gunderson has been a staple at Minnesota Public Radio since 1987. His coverage has ranged from natural disasters to public policy, all delivered with a calm demeanor that resonates with listeners. Growing up on a farm near Thief River Falls, Gunderson initially aspired to emulate Minnesota Twins broadcasters but redirected his focus towards journalism after discovering his passion for writing.

He joined MPR’s Moorhead bureau, where he appreciated the opportunity to tell more in-depth stories. Gunderson noted, “I liked the idea of taking voices and sounds and putting them together in something interesting.” His storytelling ability has garnered praise, with Lorna Benson, deputy managing editor of MPR, stating, “Dan is a great storyteller.”

Gunderson has covered some of the most significant floods in the area, including the 1997 flood, which he described as the most challenging of his career. “I found my old day planner recently — I’d worked 26 or 27 days straight,” he recalled. Gunderson emphasized the importance of maintaining a deep connection with the audience, noting the pride listeners take in supporting public radio.

Reflecting on their careers, both Haney and Gunderson have shared memorable experiences, including a slip on the ice that resulted in Haney’s injury. Gunderson fondly remembered helping Haney straighten a damaged fender but persuading him to seek medical attention proved challenging. “He just had to drive back to Fargo,” he laughed.

As they prepare to retire, Haney plans to focus on personal interests, including rebuilding his record collection and enjoying quieter nights without the buzz of a police scanner. “Deb finally told me, ‘You can’t leave that thing in here,’” Haney said with a chuckle.

Meanwhile, Gunderson, 66, is looking forward to spending time with family, particularly his young granddaughter. He described his upcoming retirement as a gradual evolution, stating, “There are other things I want to do while I can still do them.” He plans to explore woodworking and gardening, describing pulling weeds as “therapy.”

As they close this chapter of their lives, both men recognize the profound impact their work has had on the community. “I’m just a very lucky person — for the people I’ve worked with and met,” Haney said. Gunderson echoed this sentiment, stating, “We’re all so fortunate in this job to meet so many interesting and smart people with great stories to tell.”

KFGO recently held a reception for Haney, while Minnesota Public Radio is preparing a farewell event for Gunderson later this month, celebrating the remarkable contributions both have made to the field of journalism.