Former KTTV Program Chief Robert Purcell

Robert Purcell, a veteran radio performer who came to Los Angeles to produce and write for KFI before becoming the first program director for television station KTTV, has died.

Purcell, a baritone also known to local audiences for his appearances in musical theater, was 75 when he died Aug. 5 at Saddleback Hospital in Laguna Hills.

At KTTV Purcell’s responsibilities included the first televising of the Tournament of Roses Parade and the death of young Kathy Fiscus, trapped underground in a days-long struggle for life that launched local TV as a viable news medium.

Later Purcell became general manager of KFWB radio and managed stations for Crowell Collier Broadcasting in San Francisco and Minneapolis.

Survivors include his wife, Jane, three daughters and five grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at Leisure World, Laguna Hills. The family asks donations to Recording for the Blind Inc., 5022 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles 90027.