As we celebrate 100 years of CKRM, one of Saskatchewan’s most storied radio stations, we are pleased to present a series of nine stories featuring icons of CKRM.
Willy Cole is our first Honouree for the Icons of CKRM.
Willy joined the on-air staff in 1972, and his talents were quickly recognized by a larger market. He left to work at CFCN Calgary in 1973. But he was convinced to return to CKRM by owner George Gallagher in September 1978. And what a comeback he made. Not only would he tackle on-air hosting duties, but he would eventually become Program Director. He stayed with CKRM until his retirement in April of 2011 – dedicating more than three decades to building the Voice of Saskatchewan.
In the video below, Willy looks back on his decision to become a broadcaster, the team that became CKRM, the Roughriders, the concept of the Flea Market, the creation of the Country Cookout and a lot more.
Have a memory of Willy Cole? Share your story here: https://www.620ckrm.com/2025/10/20/tell-us-your-memories/
100 Years of Saskatchewan History: This article is part of a series that celebrates both the history of Saskatchewan and the 100th anniversary of one of Saskatchewan’s most storied radio stations. For more key moments from the last 100 years, visit the CKRM timeline.
