In a bit of a twist, Mark became Chief Meteorologist at WPTY after the station suffered the loss of previous Chief Meteorologist Brian Teigland after a short illness in July 2008. Mark had served the Mid-South at WPTY since 1999, bringing his infectious smile to TV screens across the region, as well as to many public appearances, schools, and the charitable events that defined his public life.
Though I only had the opportunity to meet Mark a couple of times as then-President of the local chapter of the American Meteorological Society, I had come to know him as a consummate professional, dedicated to his profession and willing to serve in a wide range of volunteer capacities. His passion was to keep Mid-Southerners informed when the weather called for a jacket or umbrella and safe when Mother Nature brought her full fury.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends, as well as to his co-workers, some of whom have seen this tragedy unfold twice in less than 5 years. Rest in Peace, Mark. You will be missed.
--
Erik Proseus
Meteorologist, MemphisWeather.net
Past-President, AMS/NWA-Memphis
From ABC 24 website:
ABC 24 Mourns Death of Chief Meteorologist Mark Walden
ABC 24 Tribute Page
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| Brian Teigland and Mark Walden - courtesy ABC 24 |
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| Mark Walden's family - courtesy TheGivingExperiment.com |
This is so beyond sad to loose such a beautiful professional human being mark walden. Im only a viewer who respected his love for children visiting schools engaging children. His smile was beautuful. I didnt know him personally but met him once at a festival n midtown
ReplyDeleteA sweet man. He was nice & engaged me n conversation were most professionals w/his status are not as hospitable. Im really sad for his young wife & children.