Dave Malarkey, who worked for Butler Radio for 52 years, died Saturday, Aug. 1. He was 78. Submitted photo.

Dave Malarkey, the longtime WISR morning show host and legendary on-air personality that brought news to the radios of Butler residents for decades, died on Saturday, Aug. 1, due to illness. He was 78.

Originally from Parker, Armstrong County, Malarkey had retired from Butler Radio this February due to health issues. At that point, Malarkey’s career bringing daily news and knowledge to his listeners spanned 52 years.

“He was so extremely knowledgeable about a wide variety of subjects. He knew the town better than anyone,” said Tyler Friel, news director for the Butler Radio Network.

Malarkey started his broadcast radio career with WISR Radio in 1973. In addition to the morning news show, Malarkey hosted the afternoon talk radio show “It’s Your Turn.”

Throughout his career, Malarkey used his show to highlight local news, politics, entertainment, arts and other public affairs while incorporating a blend of wit and wisdom that colleagues have long credited for engaging and informing Butler residents.

Deeply connected to the Butler community, Malarkey also directed and produced numerous shows and served on the board of directors for the Butler Little Theatre and Musical Theatre Guild.

“People don’t realize how much time and effort he put into all of that. He had a passion for radio. He was trying to always learn more and to inform his listeners,” Friel said. “He did a good job of that for so long because he was genuinely himself.”