Walter John Chilsen
He began his career in radio and television broadcasting with WLIN radio, Merrill, in 1949. After three years he moved on to pursue a career in acting, first at Northwestern University and then in California. He returned to radio broadcasting with WLIN in early 1954 and then moved to WSAU radio, Wausau, later that year. He became the first News Director and Anchor for WSAU-TV, when it signed on the air as Wausau’s first television station in October, 1954. He remained in those positions as Central Wisconsin’s most authoritative news voice until 1966. His interest in public affairs then turned into the ultimate public service when he was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate in November 1966. He continued in broadcast sales on a part time basis for WSAU-TV through 1968 and then concentrated his attentions full time on his new career in the State Senate. In 1990, he retired from politics after serving 6 terms in the State Senate.
Walter John Chilsen passed away on Dec. 25, 2018.
A true gentleman. I remember Walter John when WSAU-TV first began broadcasting! He epitomized the role of newscaster.