The Minnesota sports community is in mourning following the sudden passing of Tom Ryther, a beloved and widely respected figure in the world of sports journalism. Tom Ryther, whose career spanned several decades, left an indelible mark on Minnesota’s sports broadcasting landscape. As a long-time Sports Director at KSTP and later at KARE, Ryther was not just a familiar voice on television, but a trusted guide through many of the state’s most memorable sporting moments. His death, confirmed earlier this week, has left fans, colleagues, and friends deeply saddened.
Tom Ryther was a prominent figure in Minnesota’s sports media scene from the early 1970s through the early 1990s. During his time as Sports Director at KSTP from 1971 to 1978 and at KARE from 1979 to 1991, Ryther earned a reputation for his professionalism, charismatic on-air presence, and his ability to bring sporting events to life for his viewers. Whether it was covering high school sports, collegiate games, or Minnesota’s professional teams, Ryther had an innate ability to engage audiences and elevate every story with his passion for athletics and his deep knowledge of the games. His death marks the end of an era for many who grew up watching his broadcasts and appreciated his insightful commentary.
Early Life and the Road to Sports Journalism
Born in the Midwest, Tom Ryther’s journey into sports journalism seemed almost destined from a young age. He grew up with a love for sports, whether it was playing baseball in the local sandlots or watching his favorite teams on television. His passion for sports was rivaled only by his love of storytelling, and he quickly realized that he wanted to find a way to combine the two. After studying journalism in college, Ryther began working for smaller radio stations, where he honed his skills as a broadcaster. His clear voice, sharp insight, and ability to connect with listeners caught the attention of regional news stations, and soon he transitioned to television—a medium where he would truly shine.
Tom Ryther’s early years in television journalism were marked by perseverance and determination. He worked tirelessly to develop his craft, building a reputation for accuracy, enthusiasm, and a keen sense of what sports fans wanted to see and hear. In 1971, Ryther was offered the role of Sports Director at KSTP, one of Minnesota’s most prominent television stations. It was the opportunity he had been waiting for, and it marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career in sports broadcasting.
A Career Defined by Dedication and Passion
Tom Ryther’s time at KSTP and later KARE cemented his status as one of Minnesota’s leading sports journalists. As Sports Director, he was responsible for covering all of the state’s major sporting events, from professional football and hockey to high school and collegiate sports. His on-air presence was commanding, and his deep knowledge of the games, players, and strategies made him a trusted source of information for fans. But it wasn’t just his knowledge that set him apart—it was his ability to make every broadcast feel personal. Ryther didn’t just report on sports; he invited viewers to experience the excitement, the drama, and the stories behind the games.
Throughout his career, Ryther covered some of the most memorable moments in Minnesota sports history. He was there for the highs and lows of the Minnesota Vikings, the rise of the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the Minnesota Twins’ championship runs. His coverage of the 1987 and 1991 World Series, when the Twins claimed their two titles, remains etched in the memories of fans who watched Ryther passionately recount every play. He was a fixture in Minnesota homes during these historic events, providing commentary that was both informative and filled with emotion. Ryther’s ability to capture the spirit of the moment was unmatched, and his voice became synonymous with Minnesota sports.
In addition to his work on professional sports, Ryther had a deep commitment to covering local high school and collegiate athletics. He believed that sports at every level deserved recognition, and he was known for his enthusiastic coverage of local high school football games and college basketball tournaments. He took great pride in shining a spotlight on young athletes and emerging talent, often highlighting stories that other broadcasters might overlook. This commitment to the community further endeared him to Minnesota sports fans, who appreciated his dedication to showcasing their hometown teams and players.
A Mentor and Friend to Many
Beyond his work in front of the camera, Tom Ryther was also a mentor and friend to many in the broadcasting industry. He took great joy in helping young journalists find their footing in a competitive field, and he was always generous with his time and advice. Many of today’s top sports broadcasters in Minnesota credit Ryther with helping them get their start in the industry. He was known for his patience, his willingness to offer constructive feedback, and his belief that mentorship was a crucial part of the job.
Ryther’s colleagues remember him not just for his professionalism but for his warmth and humor. He had a way of putting people at ease, whether they were co-hosts, interviewees, or fans he met at sporting events. He was a fixture in Minnesota’s sports community, often attending games and events even when he wasn’t covering them. His love for sports was genuine, and it was clear to everyone who knew him that he wasn’t just doing a job—he was living his passion.
Over the years, Ryther became a beloved figure in Minnesota’s media circles. He was known for his kindness, his quick wit, and his ability to make even the most stressful newsroom moments feel manageable. His passing has left a profound sense of loss among his colleagues, many of whom have spoken out about the deep impact he had on their careers and their lives.
Community Service and Legacy
In addition to his work in broadcasting, Tom Ryther was also deeply involved in his community. He believed in using his platform to make a positive difference, and he was a frequent participant in charity events and fundraisers throughout Minnesota. Ryther was particularly passionate about youth sports programs, often lending his voice and time to help raise funds for local schools and athletic organizations. He believed that sports had the power to teach important life lessons, and he was committed to ensuring that young people had access to the resources they needed to succeed.
Ryther’s community service extended beyond sports as well. He was a vocal advocate for several local charities, particularly those focused on education and health. He often used his public profile to bring attention to causes that mattered to him, and he was known for his generosity both in terms of his time and his financial contributions. Ryther’s commitment to his community was one of the many reasons why he was so beloved, and his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from local organizations and individuals who were touched by his kindness.
The Sudden Loss and a Community in Mourning
The news of Tom Ryther’s death has come as a shock to many. Though he had retired from full-time broadcasting in the early 1990s, Ryther remained a visible and active presence in Minnesota’s sports community. His passing has left a void that will be difficult to fill, and his absence is already being felt by those who knew him, both personally and professionally.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the state, with fans, colleagues, and friends sharing their memories of Ryther and the impact he had on their lives. Local sports teams, including the Minnesota Vikings, Timberwolves, and Twins, have all issued statements expressing their condolences and honoring Ryther’s contributions to the world of sports journalism. Many have noted that Ryther was not just a broadcaster but a true fan, someone who understood the importance of sports in bringing people together.
His colleagues at KSTP and KARE have also spoken out about the loss, with many sharing personal stories of Ryther’s kindness, mentorship, and humor. For those who worked alongside him, Ryther was more than just a colleague—he was a friend and a role model. His passing has left a deep sense of loss in the newsroom, and his legacy will be carried on by the many broadcasters he mentored and inspired.
A Legacy of Excellence in Sports Journalism
As Minnesota continues to mourn the loss of Tom Ryther, it is clear that his legacy will endure for years to come. He was more than just a sports broadcaster—he was a voice that brought people together, a mentor who helped shape the careers of countless journalists, and a community leader who gave back in ways that will be remembered for generations.
Ryther’s dedication to his craft, his commitment to his community, and his love for sports will not be forgotten. He left an indelible mark on Minnesota’s sports broadcasting landscape, and his impact will be felt long after his passing. For those who grew up watching his broadcasts, Ryther will forever be remembered as the voice of Minnesota sports—a man whose passion for the game was matched only by his passion for the people he served.
A Final Farewell
As the Minnesota sports community prepares to say its final goodbyes to Tom Ryther, plans are already underway for a memorial service that will celebrate his life and legacy. The service, which is expected to take place in the coming weeks, will bring together friends, family, colleagues, and fans to honor a man who gave so much to his community and to the world of sports journalism.
While his passing marks the end of an era, Tom Ryther’s legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched. His voice may no longer be heard on the airwaves, but his impact will be felt for generations to come. For those who knew him, worked with him, and watched him, Ryther will always be remembered as a true giant of sports broadcasting—a man whose love for the game was only matched by his love for the people he shared it with.
