OT: Former KMEL DJ Rick Chase found dead
YST6014
Rick Chase, former KMEL jock (along with KZZO "The Zone" Sacramento
and Q102 Reno in recent years) was found dead at his Stockton home over
the weekend.
Rick was doing mornings at KWIN, a Stockton/Modesto CHR station.
YST6014
Memorial Friday for Rick Chase
December 19, 2002
A memorial service is scheduled Friday in Modesto for popular morning disc
jockey Rick Chase, who died of an apparent heart attack Monday at his Stockton
home.
Mr. Chase, 45, also known as George F. Fryer, was a native of Salinas. He had
been part of KWIN's morning team with Amanda King for the past six months.
He probably was best known for his work in San Francisco at KMEL from 1986 to
1998. He also worked for KFRC and KITS in the Bay Area, KNVQ in Reno and KZZO
in Sacramento.
He was a 20-year radio veteran who started his career at KDON and KTOM in
Salinas. He was the public address announcer for the Salinas Angels baseball
team from 1975 to 1979.
He graduated from North Salinas High School in 1975.
Mr. Chase was nothing like his loud and boisterous on-air personality. He was
involved with several charities, including Toys for Tots, and helped the needy.
In San Francisco, he established an organization called "Rick's Kids" to help
underprivileged children. He also developed "A Christmas Wish," which helps
families in need during the holidays, and was involved with Crime Stoppers,
which helped the San Francisco Police Department.
Due to these efforts, San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown proclaimed Dec. 18,
1996, as Rick Chase Day.
He was an avid San Francisco 49ers fan. He was a member of the Big Brothers
Association for more than 10 years.
He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Mary and Charles Rosenthal of
Salinas; brother, Roy Fryer of Salinas; and sister, Margie O'Grady of Salinas.
He was preceded in death by his father, George Fryer Sr.
Friday's memorial service is set for 6 p.m. at Modesto Foursquare
Church-Victory Life Center. Another memorial service is scheduled Saturday, at
2 p.m. at St. George Episcopal Church, Salinas. Struve and LaPorte Funeral
Home, Salinas, is in charge of arrangements.
Remembrances may be made to the American Heart Association, 1514 Moffett St.,
Suite A, Salinas 93905.