Public Radio Icon Paul Damberg Passes

NORTHLAND — A Northland icon of public radio and supporter of local news Paul Damberg has passed away last on Friday, February 21.

Damberg spent 34 years of his career working in public radio and nonprofit fundraising.

He graduated from Macalester College back in the late 80’s with a degree in sociology, but it was his college job of public that made Damberg fall in love with local journalism and public radio.

Damberg has spent over 17 years as the development director at KUMD, spent 6 years as the foundation director for the Human Development Center, and most recently worked at UWS as Wisconsin Public Radio’s Northern Regional Manager for the next eight years.

Since 2021, Damberg experienced a few life-threatening medical conditions and was in and out of the hospital for the next 4 years.

Damberg will be remembered by many for good laughs and his compassion for helping others achieve their dreams.

Damberg was also apart of Rotary International, Boy Scouts of America, and several other community organizations.

Last year, Fox21’s Drew Kerner interviewed Damberg about his retirement from WPR for the Promethean, UWS’ college newspaper.

A celebration of life for Paul Damberg is planned for later this spring.