Broadcast legend dies

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Story Published: Sep 21, 2009 at 12:34 PM MDT

Story Updated: Sep 21, 2009 at 12:38 PM MDT

By Ted Dawson

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IDAHO FALLS - You've listened to that voice for nearly 40 years. Jim Garchow who came to Idaho Falls in 1970 to start a country-western radio station, died Sunday morning, after a long battle with several debilitating diseases.

It was Garchow's sports announcing that won him a legion of loyal, life long fans. He broadcast baseball games, softball games, football, and basketball, all with a professional touch uncommon in a small market this size.

He almost died 20 years ago, but a heart transplant saved his life and allowed his fans to hear him all these many years. This past year has been difficult because of circulation problems. Jim had to have a leg amputated, but his daughters still brought him to Melaleuca Field this summer to broadcast Idaho Falls Chukars games. He broadcast his last game September 7, when the Chukars honored him for his many years of service.

Despite failing health, Jim was able to listen to Friday night's football game, where his grandson, Michael Berger led Jim's beloved Skyline team to their fourth straight victory with an upset over state champion Hillcrest.

Jim's battle with poor health ended at 4:40am Sunday morning. A memorial service will be held next Saturday.

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