The Siouxland community is in mourning after the death of one of its most beloved figures, Brad Pautsch, a former Sports Director at KTIV-TV. Brad, known for his decades-long contribution to sports journalism in Iowa, passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at the age of 57, following a valiant battle with cancer. His death was confirmed by his wife, Sally Eckman Pautsch, who shared the news on a heartfelt post via the family’s CaringBridge account, marking the end of a chapter for a man whose life and career touched many across Iowa and beyond.
Born and raised on a farm near Early, Iowa, Brad Pautsch embodied the hardworking, community-oriented spirit of the Midwest. Over the years, he became a familiar and trusted face in Siouxland homes, serving as a beacon of sports reporting for KTIV, where he worked for over three decades. His passing leaves a void not only in his family but in the hearts of viewers, colleagues, athletes, and fans who came to admire his commitment, enthusiasm, and integrity in both his personal and professional life.
A Life and Career Rooted in Iowa Values
Brad Pautsch was a product of small-town Iowa, where the values of hard work, loyalty, and community ran deep. He grew up on a farm near Early, Iowa, where he developed a passion for sports and storytelling. His roots in Iowa and love for sports would go on to shape a storied career that spanned more than 30 years.
Brad was a proud alumnus of Crestland High School in Early, where he was an active participant in various athletic programs. After graduating in 1984, he went on to attend Iowa State University, where he pursued a degree in journalism and communications. It was during his time at Iowa State that Brad began to hone his craft, gaining experience as a news and sports reporter at KASI radio. His early days as a radio reporter laid the foundation for the successful career that would follow.
Upon graduating from Iowa State University, Brad wasted no time pursuing his passion for sports journalism. In May 1990, he joined KTIV-TV in Sioux City, Iowa, as a weekend sports presenter. Little did anyone know that this humble beginning would turn into a legendary career. Brad quickly proved himself as a dedicated, knowledgeable, and engaging sports journalist, earning the respect of his colleagues and the admiration of viewers.
In 1996, Brad was promoted to Sports Director at KTIV, a position he held with distinction for nearly two decades. Throughout his career, he became known for his in-depth coverage of local sports teams, his enthusiastic play-by-play commentary, and his genuine passion for high school athletics. Whether covering local high school football or reporting on college basketball, Brad brought the same level of energy, professionalism, and warmth to each broadcast. He was not just a journalist but a storyteller who connected with his audience on a personal level.
A Storied Career with Accolades and Achievements
Brad’s dedication to sports reporting did not go unnoticed. Over the course of his career, he received numerous awards and accolades for his work, solidifying his status as one of Iowa’s premier sports journalists. His coverage of the Crestland Cadets football team earned him significant recognition, including the prestigious Iowa Broadcast News Association’s (IBNA) first-place award for “Sports Reporting” in 2007.
In addition to this, Brad was honored with the IBNA’s “Best Sportscast” award multiple times, including in 2004, 2012, and 2013. His passion for delivering accurate, thoughtful, and entertaining sports coverage also earned him the IBNA’s “Best Sports Play-by-Play” award in 2004, 2009, and 2010. These accolades served as a testament to his dedication to his craft and his ability to bring local sports to life for his audience.
But more than the awards and accolades, it was Brad’s connection to the community that defined his career. He became a trusted voice in Siouxland sports, someone who local athletes, coaches, and fans looked to for honest and engaging reporting. Whether he was covering a high-stakes rivalry game or interviewing a high school athlete about their future, Brad brought a sense of genuine care and interest to every story.
The Courageous Battle Against Cancer
Brad’s journey took a challenging turn when he was diagnosed with cancer. True to his character, Brad faced the diagnosis with unwavering courage and grace, never allowing it to define him or his outlook on life. He continued to work and inspire those around him, even as he underwent treatment. His battle with the disease was marked by resilience, and he remained a source of strength and hope for his family, friends, and colleagues throughout his illness.
In a touching post on the family’s CaringBridge account, Brad’s wife, Sally, shared the heartbreaking news of his passing, offering a glimpse into the final weeks of his life. “Our family is sad to announce the death of Brad, our beloved husband, dad, brother, and son. Brad passed away Saturday, October 19 at 10:30 in the morning. He came to hospice on October 9th after a new diagnosis following symptoms and declines in his abilities. Our hearts are broken, but we are so glad he came home and was extremely comfortable, enjoying family by his side. He had many visits, calls, and I read many texts to him. He loved you all.”
Sally’s words encapsulate the immense love and support that surrounded Brad in his final days. He was not only a respected journalist but a devoted husband, father, brother, and son who cherished his family above all else.
Family, Faith, and Community
Brad Pautsch’s life extended far beyond his career. He was a man of deep faith, actively involved in his local church, Crossroads Impact Church, where he found solace and strength throughout his battle with cancer. His church family, along with his community, rallied around him and his loved ones during his illness, offering prayers, support, and comfort in their time of need.
Brad was a loving husband to his wife, Sally Eckman Pautsch, an art teacher in Sioux City, and a dedicated father to their two children, Joseph and Mary. Family was everything to Brad, and he took immense pride in watching his children grow and succeed. In 2007, his daughter Mary gave birth to his grandson, Reggie, a joyous moment that brought Brad endless happiness and a renewed sense of purpose.
Outside of his professional life, Brad enjoyed playing basketball and baseball in his free time. His love for sports extended beyond the newsroom, and he remained active in the local sports community, participating in recreational leagues and coaching youth teams. He was a mentor to many young athletes, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams and work hard, both on and off the field.
A Legacy of Kindness and Compassion
As the community reflects on Brad’s life, one thing becomes abundantly clear: his legacy is one of kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication. He was a man who lived his life with integrity, always striving to make a positive impact on those around him. Whether it was through his work as a sports director, his involvement in his church, or his role as a father and husband, Brad’s presence was a gift to everyone who knew him.
Tributes have poured in from across the state, with former colleagues, athletes, and community members sharing stories of Brad’s generosity, humor, and dedication to his work and his family. One former colleague at KTIV remarked, “Brad was more than just a coworker. He was a friend, a mentor, and someone who always had a smile on his face. He made work fun, and he had this incredible ability to make everyone around him feel valued. He’ll be deeply missed.”
The Siouxland community has rallied to support the Pautsch family in their time of grief, with many expressing their admiration for the strength and resilience Brad showed throughout his battle with cancer. In the days following his death, vigils and memorials were held in his honor, with friends, family, and fans gathering to celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to his community.
Funeral Arrangements and Lasting Impact
Funeral arrangements for Brad Pautsch are expected to be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, his family has requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the Pautsch family has asked that donations be made to cancer research organizations and local youth sports programs, causes that were close to Brad’s heart.
As the community mourns the loss of Brad Pautsch, his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. He was a man who embodied the very best of what it means to be a part of a community: kind, compassionate, dedicated, and always willing to lend a helping hand.
Brad’s life was a testament to the power of perseverance, love, and community, and his memory will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
