Henry “Hank” Mills Booth
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Henry “Hank” Mills Booth was born on May 24, 1946, in Lawrence, Kansas to Arden and Elizabeth Booth. He was a loving father and grandfather, dedicated community leader, and beloved radio personality. He will be remembered for his heart and his voice, both of which he shared with his community generously, and with love.
An older brother to Elizabeth “Bette” Booth, Hank grew up attending schools in Lawrence and Baldwin. His father Arden put the radio station KLWN on the air in 1951, starting a family business that Hank would grow up around and become an integral part of. Hank’s first show on the air was at age 14 on KLWN. He was a proud Chesty Lion in the Class of 1964 and in high school, he played football and was involved in student government. After graduation, he briefly attended the University of Maryland and the University of Kansas before enlisting in the US Army Reserves.
Hank met his future wife Susan “Sue” Booth (Shumate) out dancing in Wichita, Kansas in 1970. They were married on December 22nd, 1971, in Wichita. Hank, Sue, and son Andrew “Andy” Glenn Booth moved to White Sands Missile Range when Hank was stationed there shortly after the wedding. After a brief time in the Southwest, the family returned to Lawrence so Hank could manage KLWN while his father served in the state senate. They planted roots and welcomed two daughters, Amy Elizabeth in 1974, and Rebecca Amber in 1977.
From the time he moved to Lawrence, Hank’s voice was everywhere. For five decades, Hank hosted his daily radio show, according to the Record. From his KLWN studio and from remote set ups in every corner of town, Hank announced births and deaths, interviewed community members, and emceed the comings and goings of everyday life. With Hank, everything was a celebration. He loved to hear about the little beautiful moments in people’s lives and he shared many of his family’s on the air, from the birth of each of his grandchildren to the joys and tribulations of marital life.
Beyond the show, Hank had a decorated career in broadcasting. Hank served as the Kansas Association of Broadcasters (KAB) President, was named KAB Broadcaster of the Year in 1981, and was given the KAB Distinguished Service Award in 1990. Among Hank’s proudest achievements was his time as the voice of the Kansas Jayhawks, serving as the PA announcer in Allen Fieldhouse and what was then Memorial Stadium. The job, as well as his time as the voice of the KU Marching Jayhawks, combined two of his great loves: broadcasting and the Hawks. Back at KLWN, he mentored a generation of the radio industry and was an engine behind 105.9 The Lazer, an iconic local alternative music station in the 1990s.
Hank’s love of Lawrence and love of broadcasting came together in the press box of Lawrence High football games–he was the voice of the Lawrence High Lions for more than 50 years. In a recent interview, an LHS administrator said what so many players and families knew–Hank was “part of what makes Lawrence High, Lawrence High”. Upon his retirement, the school and the team honored him with a monogrammed chair that his successor will inherit.
While broadcasting was Hank’s job, loving Lawrence and the people who live here became his calling. There was rarely a board or community event he wasn’t involved with in some way. He served as either president or chairman of the Lawrence Chamber, the Lawrence United Fund, KU William Allan White Foundation, Lawrence-Douglas County Planning Commission, the Leadership Kansas Program, Lawrence Junior Achievement, Independence Days, the Swarthout Society and Volunteers in Court. He was a proud friend of 4-H, mentoring 4Hers that included his children and grandchildren, emceeing the county fair livestock auction, and presenting the Arden Booth Good Manners Award every year at the county fair. Hank helped start a seventh-grade football program in Lawrence schools, helped get the Ryan Gray Playground constructed, and once ran for county commissioner. He was involved with Cottonwood, the United Way, Lawrence Schools Foundation, Visiting Nurses Association, the Ballard Center, Festival of Trees, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Friends of Theater (FROTH) at KU, and Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center.
Hank’s contributions did not go unrecognized. He was recognized as an outstanding Rotarian, won the Lawrence Kiwanis Club’s Substantial Citizen Award in 2002, received an award for supporting Haskell University, was inducted into the Lawrence High Hall of Fame in 1999, and was named Lawrencian of the Year in 2014.
Outside of the professional arena, Hank also pursued his more eclectic joys. He was a firework aficionado and storm chaser throughout his life. As a teenage entrepreneur he ran several fireworks stands and his family often had to call him in off the porch and into the basement when he got drawn in watching a storm. He loved to eat raw green onions dipped in salt, rhubarb pie with vanilla ice cream, and pork rinds. He never learned to roller skate or water ski but was known to get a workout watching a KU basketball game, whether by polishing shoes or pacing. He cherished his summer vacations with his family at the Lake of the Ozarks and was always happy behind the wheel of his boat.
A mentor to many, Hank was a friend to even more. He was generous, kind, and big-hearted. He lived brightly–you always knew when Hank was in a room, and he always made you feel seen and appreciated. To his grandchildren, he was “Boppo”, larger than life and always ready with a hug. As a father and grandfather, he instilled in his family his spirit of service, a deep-seated love of community, and a compassionate generosity that led them into careers in medicine and mental health care, education, and public service.
Hank passed away on July 7th after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Sue, his children Andy and Amy, his daughter in law Kim, and grandchildren and great grandchildren Kyle (Liz), Victoria, Kennedy, Chloe, Boo, Truman, Brian, and Chase. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter Becca. A celebration of life will be held at Plymouth Congregational Church on Thursday, July 13th at 2 PM and the family asks that attendees wear Lawrence High or KU gear. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation of any size to the Douglas County 4-H Foundation or the Lawrence Schools Foundation Early Childhood Program.
The echo of Hank’s voice hangs in the air along the holiday parade routes and in the stadiums throughout the community he loved. While he may no longer be behind a mic in Lawrence, those who knew and loved him will take heart to know that he will always be on the air, a strong and distinct voice in the beloved memories of thousands of Lawrence residents.
I had the greatest pleasure of meeting Hank when I was about to be Clenece Hills show Timeline Radio. We talked very briefly a couple times and he definitely had a great sense of humor. I enjoyed hearing him on According to the Record and he was an excellent speaker. I am going to miss seeing him at church as well and seeing him speak. I’m an LHS alum myself and I am very flattered that he cared deeply about our schools and KU athletics. He will never be forgotten and KLWN will never be the same without him. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
-Alex Pickerel
Thinking of the Booth family. So appreciate all Hank did for our early childhood program by way of the Lawrence Schools Foundation. It was a pleasure to have known him. So sorry for your loss.
I’d known Hank since high school. Who did not? Not surprisingly, he was the top ad salesman for the LHS student newspaper–The Budget. I re-connected with him years later, when I worked at Cottonwood,Inc. He was always available to speak to and work with my various job-seekers. He had a unique way of being interested in everything and everyone. There was no one he didn’t know and no one he wouldn’t try to help. His heart was as big as his voice and will be missed by all.
I recall Hank in so many roles. But the one that really touched me was when he gave the eulogy at my father’s funeral in January, 2001, when he told us that though the loss was great, “the sun will rise again tomorrow morning” and we would all carry on in his memory. That is a fitting way for me to think of the loss of Hank, too.
This week, Lawrence and Douglas County lost a treasure. Hank Booth’s love and passion for all of our citizens was unparalleled. His commitment to all of us set the standard for all other leaders with his special brand of servant leadership.
I was one of the blessed citizens to be able to work alongside him for many years.
My hope that although he will be terribly missed by his family and community, that new leaders will arise.
Rest in peace Hank. Well done good and faithful servant. Well done.
I was stunned when I learned of Hank’s death Friday. I had known Hank and Arden in my student days at the KU School of Journalism while working on (defunct) KUOK-AM and KANU-FM. After graduating and spending several years as a broadcast journalist elsewhere, Hank offered me the news director’s position at KLWN-AM/KLZR-FM in 1979. The following seven years at Lawrence Broadcasting were some of the best years of my life. I learned more than I could ever recount in this short space. I grew up in an entreprenurial small business family and therefore, truly understood and appreciated the “how” and “why” the two radio stations were focused on serving Lawrence residents. Each station related to its listeners in a one-on-one basis. Hank Booth is a huge figure in the history of Kansas broadcasting whose voice and personality will live on forever with all of us who listened to him and admired him so much for decades. May God bless.
Our fathers were old friends from the time of their youth, and remained so after both moved to Lawrence. Arden was a very well known entity in our city, but Hank was definitely an icon of Lawrence who more than adequately filled the big shoes of his father. My husband Steve and I always loved hearing him on the radio broadcasting the LHS football games. The excitement in his voice was electric.
Hank never missed saying hello to anyone and greeted those he knew as old friends, but it was his generous nature in giving time and encouragement that I will most remember. It meant so much to me when he quickly offered “any help” if I needed it when learning about my first book.
My sympathy to the entire family, and especially to Sue and Bette who were fortunate to have Hank in their lives the longest.
I remember the KLWN treasure hunts and was lucky enough to find 2 of them in the day. Hank and Arden were awesome!
I first met Hank in 4th grade while at Wakarusa Valley elementary School . We did a live on air Christmas song set in the KLWN studio and Hank was the one keeping us kidos in line and made it happen. I Had the pleasure of knowing Hank for decades after that and he was about as good a person as you could know. He put others first and always had something funny to say.
RIP Hank , Prayers to the family and friends.
Hank was one of a kind…the kind of person one aspires to become. He welcomed all with an openness and kindness that the world needs more of today. We treasure the memory of evenings spent together as a “gourmet” group eating, talking, and laughing. He was, is, and will always be the voice of Lawrence. Hugs to all, especially Sue, during this difficult time. We hope you find comfort in the love of family and the community who held Hank in such high regard. Know we are thinking you and your family from our home in Oregon.
Our families connected in the late 1980s, when Hank and Sue Booth welcomed our family to join their own in the Kanza 4H Club. Hank (and Sue’s) hospitality, kindness, and humor made our 4 kids and us feel like we belonged. Hank did that for so many of us in this community: made us feel like we belonged. With love to Sue, Amy, Andy, and the family, Steve Fawcett and Kathleen McCluskey-Fawcett
Sue, Amy, Andy, and family,
I was so sorry to learn of Hank’s passing and so grateful to have grown up knowing him and counting him as a friend. What a big heart and a big personality he had. I can hear his voice in my mind right now — most of Lawrence probably can! I am thinking of you, holding you in my heart, and wishing you peace.
Booth family, Hugs and prayers are coming your way. Hank never missed a chance to promote 4H, and he will be sorely missed as an honorary Douglas County Ambassador. Thank you for sharing him with the 4H community. We may be showing up once a month at the radio station out of habit in hopes of seeing his smiling face and hearing his golden tones. Love to you all.
Sue, Robyn, and the Ambassador team
Sue, Andy, Kim, Amy, and Family,
You are in my heart and on my mind as you mourn and miss Hank’s physical presence in your family of which he was fiercely proud and so dearly loved. I feel truly fortunate to have been a member of your KLWN/KLZR Radio family and to have listened to, watched, and learned from the best!
Love,
Hank was our younger cousin. With his merry eyes and infectious laugh, he was a delight even as a young child. We admired the man he grew to be and loved the little time we had to spend with Hank and Sue and family.
Craig and I send our love.
Dana (Rugh) George
Hank was a dear man. We will miss his involvement in the Festival of Trees. I always appreciated his interest and knowledge about our community. Sending love to the family.
I grew up with the voice of Hank at the family breakfast table coming over my parent’s transistor radio. Years later when I moved back to Lawrence I had the pleasure of working regularly with Hank when I worked for the City of Lawrence and Hank worked with the Lawrence Chamber. I enjoyed tuning into Hank’s commentary with Matt Llewelyn for the LHS football games and running into him at nearly every community event. Hank lived a life highlighted with numerous activities and the thread of service woven between all of them. Hank, you will be so missed. Rest in peace and confident about the lasting impact you made on the community we love.
Hank always had a smile and a kind word every time I saw him. He had this larger than life energy and I always felt that I was in the presence of a local celebrity (105.9 the Lazer was my favorite radio station while living in Lawrence). His spirit and voice will truly be missed. I’m thinking of the whole Booth family – you all are in my heart.
Hank you were such an amazing man. Thank you for all you have done for Lawrence!! You will be missed.
I didn’t know Hank or Arden personally but it would be hard for anyone to outdo Arden Booth’s contributions to public radio. Thanks to Hank for continuing the tradition of excellence.
Known Hank from Pinckney Grade School, Ms Russell’s math class at Central Jr High through the class of 64.
Rest In Peace
SO THANKFUL FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP OVER THESE MANY YEARS. YOU LEFT US TOO SOON!! REST IN PEACE.
Sue, Amy, Andy, Bette, and family—sending all my love–kneeling in prayer that God will comfort you and surround you with abgels to bear you up with wings of eagles. My life would not have been possible without Hank—I was so lucky to have him as a friend and mentor–to call all of you extended family. I am eternally grateful. You know, an extraordinary life is not a priduct of a perfect person, we–all of us– are human, imperfect, we can only do the best that we can—so, the mark of an extraordinary life is the choice and determination of one who uses all given talents and resources to lift the lives of others—that was Hank! He did that with the power of light and love that lived in his soul and he. conveyed that power every single time he opened a microphone or spoke to a person—this power of love resonated in his voic bevause it was in his heart.. His extraordinary life of service is the hallmark of one who expressed in actions the teachings of the only perfect person to ever walk this earth—and I know that Jesus Christ and his Father greeted Hank with open arms and spoke peace to his heart–joy to his spirit–with the words ‘well-done my Beloved son, well-done.’ He is not far. He is with his loved ones. And his works will go on for generations through the people he touched. May God bless and keep you all. Thank you Hank, from a little girl who needed a friend—thank you Hank Booth and Godspeed.
Hank lived life well! He was an inspiration to all that had the honor of coming in contact with him, regardless of how small the contact was. His spirit radiated kindness. He led by example. What an awesome legacy he left! To the family, prayers for comfort as you grieve this great loss and receive comfort in knowing how loved and respected he was. His physical presence is gone but his spirit lives on.
We first met Hank in 1986, when we put on a fundraiser for a friend who was in need of a bone marrow transplant. We needed some support, and Hank showed up in full force. His efforts made the fundraiser, and eventually the then experimental bone marrow transplant, a success. His support continued with our races and fundraisers, the Raintree Run and Lawrence Half Marathon. He soon became more than a supporter-but a friend. His kind and generous heart was surpassed by none. We last saw Hank at the Roundball Classic. He was in his element-announcing a KU basketball game and raising money for children with cancer. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Marcia and Steve Riley
I got to know Hank, aka Henry Booth, while attending high school. If I recall, we were both in Miss Ruttan’s English class our sophomore year.
We were never great friends. Just friends.
The last time I spoke with him was one summer he was hosting, Art in the Park at the band stand and acknowledged my presence as I was in town visiting family.
He was certainly one of a kind.
My thoughts & prayers go out to his family.
RIP Hank you have run a great race!
This obituary was wonderful. If we all could do 1/5 of the charity work Hank did the world would be such a better place. Just read all the organizations Hank helped and supported. It is a special person to have helped so many people in life. Maybe we can all volunteer for one of those organizations in the next year to remember Hank’s legacy. Rest in peace Hank and condolences to family. Hank Booth was and is a Lawrence institution and God gave him a big big hug on his arrival at the pearly gates. Bless u Hank Booth.
Hank Booth’s service to country and community was the epitome of good citizenship. Expressing profound thanks to Hank’s family and mere words of condolences do not fully capture the contributions of his life and our deep sorrow at his untimely passing. When I think of Hank, I am reminded of a saying: What you give you always have. What you fail to give is lost forever. Hank Booth was a gift of unmatched excellence to our community. What a remarkable blessing to have known him and to be inspired by his example! Pray let us be guided by his bright light for the rest of our days!
Hank’s untiring determination to help me get the food we need for the Christmas dinner each year will not be forgotten. That was just one small example of his devotion and dedication to community events and the people in Lawrence. He will be missed always and in all ways.
I have known Hank since 1958 when my mother and my brothers and I moved to Lawrence from Great Bend after my father died. I worked for Arden Booth as a copywriter, announcer, and sometimes newscaster during my KU years. And, I have been in and out of KLWN ever since. When I was chairperson of the Douglas County American Revolution Bicentennial Commission, Hank approved a weekly radio show to promote the 200th birthday of the USA and Bob Newton and I hosted it. As the current host of Timeline, I looked forward every Monday morning to visiting with Hank when he finished According to the Record. I will miss wearing Hank’s headphones, I will miss his sweet and genuine greetings to everyone who crossed his path, and I will miss his stories. Douglas County has lost one of its best friends. His family has lost its anchor. Thank you, Hank, for what you represented in our lives. You have made a difference. I extend my sympathy to Sue, Andy, Amy, Bette and all of the Booth family.
I’m so sorry to hear of Hank’s passing. He was a Lawrence icon who was always incredibly kind and generous. My heart goes out to his family. Rest In Peace, Hank.
I Always liked Hank! he was a great guy! so sad of his loss! Couldn’t be anyone that loved what he did and was great at it!
It was an honor and privileged to know Hank for many years. As the voice of the Lions, he called ALL of our Lawrence High football games. He remembered me when we started working together on Final Friday Art walks many years later. When FF launched in August of 2010, he would have a 10-15 minute Final Friday preview spot as part of his radio show and invite Shannon or me (sometimes Molly) to talk about the must-see exhibitions and events. He was very gracious, and generous and led with questions, filled in gaps, or memory lapses. Over time, he would pass the baton and let me ramble. He would usually contact me the night before to make sure I had some info for the show, and the last FF show we did together was May 26th, my youngest daughter Claire’s birthday. I realized on the last day of June, I hadn’t heard from Hank this month. Occasionally, the show had too many people lined up and the FF just didn’t fit, and it was a rough year with the loss of his daughter Becca. I assumed that it just didn’t fit, and didn’t check to see if everything was ok, and I wish I had. I will truly miss his chipper demeanor, encouragement, kindness, positivity, friendship, and of course fabulous voice. A legend. The end of a Legacy. Thank you for everything you have done for this community Hank. We are grateful. Prayers for your family.
Hank did a monthly broadcast from The Eldridge Hotel and I was lucky enough to be his guest on a number of occasions, he sure had a way of making it easy for me, his knowledge and easy flow of speech was a joy to hear and you quickly learned in the banter before and after the broadcast that there was a lot going on in that nimble mind of his. He made you feel important. He will be missed.
Have know Hank since high school what an amazing man – loved listening to him broadcast LHS football I don’t think anyone got anymore excited than Hank – would see him in the community and always had a smile – loved talking to him. he will be missed –
I had the chance as a Girl Scout to visit KLWN and remember meeting Hank Booth then, and how friendly he was to all of us despite our shyness. But as the years passed, Hank was in our home, every day and at all times of day, and became a trusted presence. He was such a force for good! I have not lived in Lawrence for many years, but whenever I visit, I am reminded of his voice and the important place KLWN had in forming my strong sense of Lawrence as a community.
Blessings to all who loved him and will miss his presence in their daily lives.
Winifred Pinet
I got to know Hank as a youngster in 4-H also through all the charities he was so giving. Then when my brother and I started the fireworks business and 1993 Hank was a champion of our business. Hank was always willing to go the extra mile for us because we were a local family business. He loved coming to our firework stand out on 31st and Kasold. All of us at Bartz Fireworks send our love and prayers to family and friends. He will be missed but not forgotten. So long old friend!!!!
Larry Bartz
Wouldn’t it be a great world if everyone was as kind and reliable as Hank Booth? Over six decades I often encountered Hank around Lawrence because he did seem to be everywhere, always greeting us by name with a smile and friendly word, or keeping us up-to-date through the airwaves as he became a broadcasting legend in Kansas. I especially enjoyed Hank’s enthusiastic, at times frenetic radio coverage of sports, especially when his Lawrence Lions were beating my Topeka Trojans where we both had done our duty as offensive linemen decades before. On a more serious side, I will always be grateful for Hank’s support of our citizen diplomacy efforts, beginning with the Soviet visit to the Kansas Relays in April 1983. He made sure that the people of Lawrence, his thousands of radio listeners, knew all about the visits as he interviewed both the organizers of the events and our Soviet (and later Russian) guests. During the 1990 Meeting for Peace it seemed Hank had his station daily covering hours of the historic visit of more than 325 Soviet visitors, living with two hundred Lawrence host families, at such an important time in history. Hank captured the spirit of friendship and hope of those October days of 1990 like no one else. I wish to join in the prayers and condolences for Sue and the entire Booth family.
I too interacted with Hank several times over the past 30 plus years. Each time I felt truly honored that we were on a first name basis. He was that kind of magnetic personality. A true professional at his chosen craft(s). The quintessential MC at hundreds and hundreds of community events. He instinctively knew when to stall and when to wrap it up. A remarkable voice silenced – but lasting memories forever cherished. God Bless Hank Booth and the entire Booth family.
Advertising sales at KLWN-KLZR was my first job out of college. I will always be grateful for the opportunity Hank gave to me. During my 12 year tenure, Hank was not only an amazing mentor, but also a wonderful friend. I’m humbled that he counted me as a friend, as every year since I left (1999), he continued to wish me happy birthday on According to the Record. Hank will be dearly missed by all. I’m so blessed and grateful to have had him as part of my life. I give Hank lots of credit and kudos for helping to shape and develop me as a young professional. and human being. God speed, Hank. You were a great man and your legacy will live on.
Our strong and accepting voice of Lawrence, KS has been silenced. A time of deep sadness for many of us. Rest well, HANK BOOTH.
My condolences to the family and all who mourn his passing.
I am so sorry to see the loss of this great man who helped make Lawrence what it is today. I worked with Hank at the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, a strong interim executive who showed empathy and understanding to all he met. He was a shining star and will be remembered fondly. I am proud to call him Friend.
Hank Booth was a champion for local radio and a champion for all that was good for Lawrence and Douglas County. He lived as the definition of a community leader, serving on countless volunteer boards and commissions. My heartfelt condolences go out to Hank’s family which has endured so much loss in recent months.
Hi, sorry to hear about Andy s father is wonderful person when I remembered who is my former best friend is Andy Piper-Booth used live in our neighborhood on the 27th Street. I said prayer for Andy s father is up the peacefully in the heaven! Really very saddley to your Booth family to loss your love Hank.
I started listening to Arden Booth on KLWN in 1968 when my young family moved to a farm in Jefferson County. All phone calls to Lawrence were long distance and expensive. The Journal World came a day late in the mail. I was in the Lawrence schools from Kindergarten through high school, graduating in 1958. KLWN kept me in touch daily with all important happenings and news. After I retired in 1997, I was delighted to hear “According to the Record” and Hank’s voice, so much like his father’s. I agree with KLWN. Arden and Hank can’t be replaced. I will miss their voice and hometown reporting.
The LHS Class of ’64, 60th reunion committee met last night and we shared a toast to Henry Booth as we all knew him
and shared many stories of him. I enjoyed working with him when I was co-editor of the LHS Budget and Henry was our top ad salesman. I enjoyed his stories-he always had a story-when he came to the water office to pay his water bill.
And of course, enjoyed having him as a country neighbor living just over the hill from us. And in his caring way he came to check on us when our house was destroyed by the 2019 tornado. He noted that he could not physically help us too much, but he sure could round up some help if we needed it. RIP Henry
I am the former Helen Pendleton, the daughter of Judge William B. Pendleton, and cousin of local farmer, John Pendleton, of Pendleton’s Country Market. I graduated from Lawrence High in 1967. Hank was ahead of me, and Bette was behind. My dad was a farmer and was a good friend of Arden Booth, as I later became. We enjoyed a long correspondence. In 1994 he interviewed me as an author at KLWN. In grade school my class went on a field trip to KLWN and it was beyond interesting. Arden was the trusted voice of Lawrence. Hank became that voice too. I loved listening online from Austin to his radio programs. He was such a natural, so informed, congenial, cheerful, generous. When we became Facebook friends years ago, I got to keep up with his life. It was shocking to read that he had passed away. May the Lord Jesus comfort all who mourn the loss of Hank, and experience God’s peace that passes understanding.
I am guilty of copying someone else’s condolences, I have tried for hours to “sum up” how someone like Hank, has such an effect on so many, her word were simple, and said it all… Lawrence, will forevermore be different without Hank. With that, I leave it to someone, who summed it up so well:
Becky Mondi
Our strong and accepting voice of Lawrence, KS has been silenced. A time of deep sadness for many of us. Rest well, HANK BOOTH.
My condolences to the family and all who mourn his passing.
————- Thank you Becky, THANK YOU HANK, AS WELL AS TO THE ENTIRE FAMILY…
Sue and family, I, and so many others, could always count on Hank to emcee events. I never asked him to do anything to benefit the community that he didn’t do. He even emceed one non-profit event while still wearing a brace after breaking his neck. And it was so much fun to listen to how excited he became when broadcasting KU Jayhawk and Chesty Lion games. Your loss is also Lawrence’s loss. He will be so greatly missed. My deepest sympathy to all who loved him.
I loved when Hank interviewed me. I felt safe and respected every time I’ve interacted with Hank. Of all those I’ve looked up to in my life, Hank has most left the impression of one who has grown in his capacity for empathy and understanding of others’ perspectives. As I look for models to emulate, Hank stands out. A true communitarian and dedicated servant leader. I will miss Hank.
To the family of Hank Booth, we extend our heartfelt condolences.
Hank was truly a figure bigger than life because he always acknowledged those in his presence and showed them respect.
Hank and I had a special connection, especially, when sharing the mic at recent
Veterans Day Parade events.
Hank will be sorely missed but I’ll always cherish the memories.
I’m praying a special prayer of thanksgiving for Hank’s life.
I have so many fond memories of Hank from my days at Haskell. I loved joining him on air for updates from. Hank was honored as “The Friend of Haskell” for his dedication for school going back to his high school days. Rest in peace my friend.
For many years I had occasion to work with Hank in many community activities. He was always ready to be engaged and to do more than his share. It was also my pleasure to have heard Hank’s voice at Lawrence High football games, Allen Fieldhouse and Memorial Stadium. A particularly vivid memory is of Hank narrating the 4th of July fireworks displays in the football stadium back in the day. “There goes another Harvey Wallbanger!” Truly the voice of our town. He will be missed.
RIP
TO ONE OF MY DEAREST, GREATEST AND ABSOLUTE BEST FRIENDS!
I CAN CLEARLY REMEMBER YOU HIRED ME TO WORK AT THE STATION!
I THOUGHT I WAS EXTREMELY LUCKY TO HAVE A CHANCE TO HAVE WORK WITH YOU BECAUSE I HAD HEARD SO MANY WONDERFUL THINGS ABOUT YOU FROM MY PARENTS WHO HAD KNOWN YOU SINCE YOU WERE ALL KIDS GROWING UP TOGETHER IN LAWRENCE!
I FELT LUCKY TO HAVE HAD THE JOBS THAT I HAD AT THE STATION!
I GOT TO DO OFFICE WORK, LIKE ANSWER THE PHONE WHEN CAROL WOULD GO ON HER BREAKS!
I GOT TO DO SOME FILING, I MADE COPIES, THE MOST FUN JOB I HAD AND THE MOST JOB THAT HANK AND HEATHER AND BECCA GAVE ME WAS TO TAKE THE RADIO CHECKS TO THE BANK! I FELT SO TRUSTED BY THESE PEOPLE TO TAKE THE MONEY TO THE BANK!
YOU , BECCA, CAROL, HEATHER, AND VICTORIA WERE ALL SUCH GREAT AND WONDERFUL FRIENDS!
THAT WAS THE BEST COMMUNITY JOB THAT I HAVE EVER HAD!
I MISS ALL OF YOU SO MUCH!
PLEASE KNOW I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!
I DO REMEMBER HANK EMCEEING LHS FOOTBALL GAMES AND KU BBALL GAMES!
I REALLY MISS WORKING AT THE RADIO STATION BECAUSE I MISS SEEING YOU AND BECCA AND HEATHER AND VICTORIA!
I MISS SEEING EVERYONE’S FACES!
I KNOW YOU ARE UP IN HEAVEN WITH BECCAAND CAROL!
PLEASE SAY HI TO BOTH!
I SAY GOODBYE WITH A SAD HEART!
A FEW MORE THINGS I WOULD LIKE TO SAY ABOUT YOU HANK IS THAT I REMEMBER WHEN I WOULD COME IN EARLY AND I WOULD BE ABLE TO HEAR YOU ON THE RADIO DOING YOUR ACCORDING TO THE RECORD!
I ACTUALLY TOOK PHONE CALLS AND I SWITCHED THEM OVER TO YOU!
PEOPLE WOULD CALL AND THEY WOULD WIN SOMETHING FROM THE STATIONS AND I WOULD TELL THEM TO COME TO THE STATION TO GET THEIR PRIZE!
I ALSO REMEMBER WHEN I WOULD GO UPSTAIRS TO WORK AND YOU WOULD BE IN YOUR OFFICE I WOULD COME AND SAY HI!
I ALSO REMEMBER THAT I GOT PEOPLE CANDY AND OR CHOCOLATE FOR CHRISTMAS!
I ALSO REMEMBER YOU GIVING ME HUGS!
I ALSO REMEMBER ONE THING THAT I DID WITH BECCA AND HEATHER AND VICTORIA WAS GOING TO LUNCH AND WE WENT TO SUBWAY AND I ORDERED A TURKEY SANDWICH AND I TOLD THEM TO PUT A LOT OF CUCCUMBERS ON MY SANDWICH AND BECCA SAID SOMETHING ABOUT ARE YOU SURE YOU WANT THAT MANY? I SAID YES BECAUSE OF COURSE I LOVE CUCCUMBERS!
I’M SORRY THAT I HAD A LOT TO SAY BUT I JUST LOVED YOU BECAUSE YOU HELPED ME SO MUCH BY HIRING ME AND BECCA HELPED ME TO!
I am so sorry for your loss. I was going to make it for the funeral but had a cattle emergency last Thursday. I remember Charles Booth while attending Highland Junior College, but didn’t know at that time that we were related. My grandparents were Edward and Rosa Plamann Meyer from Hiawatha, Kansas. I am the 4th generation farmer- stockman on the same farm. I remember meeting Arden at my uncle Harland, John Meyer’s 80th birthday in Hamlin, many years ago. Once again, I am sorry for your loss, but so happy for Heavens gain.
To the Booth Family
It was with sincere sadness; we received the news of Hank’s death. Our heart-felt condolences go out to all of you. I really don’t know how to express these sorts of things in an appropriate manner; but a traditional card seemed so impersonal. All of us that knew Hank were grateful to have known him and to have been influenced by him. I read something the other day that seemed sort of appropriate and I would like to share it with you.
“Sometimes people come into your life and you know right away that they were meant to be there; they serve some sort of purpose, teach you a lesson or help figure out who you are or who you want to become. You never know who these people may be; your roommate, neighbor, professor, long-lost friend, lover or even a complete stranger who, when you lock eyes with them, you know that very moment that they will affect your life in some profound way.”
Hank was such a person.
We are truly saddened by the loss of Hank. I was in our living room yesterday morning looking at our grandfather clock while sitting on our green sofa. My mind wandered back 46 years to our first home on 3208 Longhorn Drive in Lawrence where that clock and sofa constituted all of our living room furniture. I thought about Hank and Sue Booth who were our were our first neighbors in our first home. I Googled Hank and was shocked.
Hank was an incredible life force who deeply touched everyone who knew him. He was honest, straightforward and a good guy. We are proud to call him friend. We valued our time with Hank and Sue as well as Andy, Amy, and the very young Becky.
In addition to his great love of his family, Hank taught me about the importance of civic responsibility. He really meant it in the best possible way. He truly cared about our community.
Although we were not originally from the area, Hank made us feel like true Kansans. He convinced Rosanne during her late and overdue pregnancy that a group of us should go with country dancing and a good “two step” would accelerate her delivery. It did. Shortly after, he announced the birth of our first child, Curt, on the radio. I can’t totally explain it, but Hank made everyone better person by his presence.
I still remember Andy coming over to the house asking for help after Hank’s turntable fell from a shelf to the floor. I remember calling my friend, Gayle Sanders, who out of the kindness of his heart, told me how to put it together again over the phone. Hank called when he got home and expressed his thanks. However, his main concern was that no one was hurt. People were always more important to Hank than things.
About two months ago, I raised KLWN on the internet and called to Rosanne that Hank was on the air. We sat at the kitchen table and listed happily to his voice on the radio waves in Lawrence. Yesterday, we collectively grieved over his passing at the same table.
We have many memories of our spirited conversations with Hank while in Lawrence. He will be genuinely missed. Rosanne and I are thinking of your entire family and all of you will remain in our thoughts and prayers. This has to be a very sad time for you. We realize that no one can fully empathize with how you must feel. Both Rosanne and I extend our sympathy to you.
Your friends,
Curt and Rosanne Friehs
Yardley, PA
To the Booth families-May God bless each of you and know how many people will miss Hank. He was so good to the kids in 4-H and we listened
to him for so many years on KLWN-what a gift he had for the listing public and his “callout” to “the donut”.Our prays and thoughts are with you.May God bless you with wonderful memories.
Corpl.Wayne Othick, retired,LPD
Nancy Othick
Hank was a wonderful mentor and freind as I started my first full time radio career many years ago. I will never forget walking into KLWN/KLZR feeling like a newby but walking out feeling ready for anything. Thankful for for my time with the Booth legacy… praying for your family. Never forgotten. EVER.
Tim Barrett KLWN/KLZR 1992-1997
My most sincere thoughts and prayers go out to the Booth family and the radio family in the listening area. Hank announced my daughter Layla’s birth in 1992 and played Eric Clapton Layla unplugged during According to the Record. A better community radio station than KLWN has yet to exist in my resume. From Hawaii to North Carolina, I still treasure Hank and Arden Booths mentorship and trust in my broadcast career. In my own fathers last week of life he talked about being on air with me on KLWN and meeting Arden and Hank. He said “that’s the way radio should be”. Dad, Arden, Hank and Carol are in the Lord’s great studio now. 42 years of radio for me has been strengthened by my time with Lawrence broadcasters. Thank you Booth family.
JUDY CLARK WALBURN
My sincerest condolences to Sue and the entire Booth family on your loss. May your wonderful memories sustain you. Hank and I had been friends since we were ten years old. We were in junior and senior high school together and both members of the LHS Class of ‘64. He was always such a good friend to me, he was even my first date when I was 16! When I was chairperson of the MS Walk-A-Thon in the ‘90’s, Hank was always so willing to help me out with advertising and giving me air time on KLWN! He always made me feel like he had time for me when I knew he must be so busy. Our paths seemed to cross over and over through the years and he was the most humble, kind and generous person to work with. He truly was a blessing to know and will be missed by all of Lawrence.
Hank and I were fraternity pledge brothers at the University of Maryland in fall of 1964. He may have been the only person from Kansas attending Maryland at that time! We struck up a quick friendship. He was a big, fun guy with that radio voice, and he used it to his advantage. We tended to party a bit too much back then, and always had fun! He went home for that first semester break and I never saw him again. I wondered where he might be through the years, and somehow discovered he did radio in Lawrence…I saw his picture and knew it was the same Hank Booth. I wanted to reach out to just say hello, but never did…sorry for that. I am not surprised after reading the comments that he always was a special person. Rest in peace Hank…from your old Phi Sigma Kappa pledge brother.
I only knew Hank from my sister, Sheri Mull (Mitchell). She asked him to interview me for a job at KLWN. I had written some ad copy and a few jingles as my resume. Although I did not get that job, Hank suggested I was on the right track and to keep at it. Eventually, I ended up in Goodland Kansas working for the radio and television stations there, KLOE…I left there to move to Napa, California and worked at station KVON/KVYN. Part of my love of radio began with my mother listening to KLWN every morning before we went to school. Back in the 50’s, that meant hearing Arden, and then, if was home sick that day, “Patty’s Party”, where I would always try to call in with one of my mom’s recipes. It was a wholesome time. When Hank took over from Arden, KLWN still felt just like home. Lawrence High football game viewers in the stadium would all have their transistor radios on listening to Hank up in the broadcasting booth! If you could make the game live, then Hank’s great calls came into your living room or on your car radio. Hank was everywhere his beautiful obituary claims! Sincerest condolences to the family.
Dearest Sue and Family,
Periodically I will “Google” old friends. Not sure why last evening I decided yo check on Hank. Oh my goodness, my heart hurts knowing that he departed 10 months ago. I am do sorry for your loss.
Hank came to Watsonville, Ca in the summer of 1964 or 1965. How we managed to meet, I don’t recall. I do remember inviting him to a couple of beach parties. He was such a fun person and everyone certainly enjoyed his presence.
He then invited me to see The Righteous Brothers at the Safari Room in San Jose, CA. I believe he had gotten tickets through the radio station where he was working. ( Uncle Vic Rugh ) started KHUB that had became KOMY.
He became a good summer friend. I was so sad to see him leave.
Once again, I am so sorry that he has transitioned. May his light shine upon you and yours..
Sincerely,
Susan Harlander