Mike Foti, former Director of Engineering

From WGBH

The WGBH community mourns with deep sadness the passing of Mike Foti, former Director of Engineering, who left ’GBH last June after 14 years to become VP of Engineering at Oregon Public Broadcasting. Mike died on Thurs, 6/12 after a brief illness. “This is difficult news at any time,” say WGBH President Jon Abbott and COO Ben Godley, “but doubly painful in the wake of Valerie’s [Gunderson] death just days ago.

Mike’s contributions to WGBH modernized systems and launched new services, including centralcasting and the integration of New Hampshire Public Television’s master control within WGBH’s operations. Our sincere condolences go to his family and to his many close WGBH friends and colleagues.” Ed Chuk, Director of WGBH Studios, knew Mike for more than 20 years. “Mike left a positive mark on broadcasting and WGBH in particular,” Ed says. “He worked tirelessly to transition WGBH (which he loved) to our new technical facility in the years preceding our move from Western Avenue. It was a major accomplishment for Mike and his engineering team when he flipped the switch that day and WGBH and WGBX were officially broadcasting from Guest Street. He was a thoughtful colleague and friend and we will miss him.”

Mike’s family is planning a memorial service in the Boston area sometime in August (stay tuned to QuickNooz). In the meantime, condolences can be sent to Mike’s wife, Debbie Foti, 14826 SE Misty Drive, 108, Happy Valley, OR 97086. Farewell, friend!