Community Corner

Dr. Mel Loses Battle With Cancer

The beloved longtime WTNH and WQUN meteorologist passed away today at the age of 66 after 'living a dream" as a Connecticut weatherman.

 

Dr. Mel Goldstein, the longtime WTNH meteorologist, passed away today at the age of 66, according to a report on WTNH.

Dr. Mel, as most people know him, was one of the most well-known figures in the state, having served as a full-time weatherman for the New Haven television station since 1986 — until his ailing health  last October.

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Goldstein was diagnosed more than 15 years ago with multiple myeloma, a form of bone cancer that affects the body’s immune system. 

WTNH reports that VP and General Manager Mark Higgins said in an e-mail to station staff, "We not only lost a great journalist today, but a great humanitarian and close friend."

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Goldstein gave a  on WTNH Nov. 17.

"Call me a happy guy," Goldstein told East Haven Patch during an interview late last summer at his shoreline home in . "I’ve got to live a dream."

Weather Enthusiast

Goldstein became an enthusiast about the weather when he was about five years old, and throughout his life he has thought about nothing else.

After becoming a meteorologist, he took a teaching job at Western Connecticut State University and started a bachelor’s degree program and the WestConn Weather Center for trainee weathermen and women.

He has written two books about his specialty — "The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Weather" and "Dr. Mel’s Connecticut Climate Book," which includes the treasure trove of Connecticut weather data he has collected over the years.

"I’ve done everything that I’ve wanted to do," he said.

Hospice Care

Up until his death today, the meterologist had been receiving care from the nurses at Connecticut Hospice in Branford.

In November, Dr. Mel was present at the hospice to accept an award on behalf of the facility, which  to receive certification as a palliative hospital or end of life care facility.

WQUN Remembers Dr. Mel

In addition to television, Goldstein also served for 13 years as the chief meteorologist for WQUN-AMQuinnipiac University's radio station. Goldstein delivered his last forecast on WQUN on Dec. 19.

Ray Andrewsen, the radio station's general manager and morning host said the following is being read at the end of each WQUN-AM newscast today:

“Today WQUN lost a very dear and treasured member of our broadcast family. Dr. Mel Goldstein has served Connecticut and the greater New Haven community with remarkable distinction as the state’s pre-eminent meteorologist. His passion for science and teaching, the thrill he experienced with every passing weather event, his intelligence, and his deep reservoir of courage and good cheer have left a lasting impression on viewers, listeners, and his extended Connecticut family.

"We are deeply saddened to lose our true friend Dr. Mel but hope to continue to honor the legacy of a man who struggled bravely against a ravaging disease until his final moments. In his battles, he gave others inspiration and hope that they hold closely to all the many hearts he touched. Our thoughts and deep condolences go to the love of his life, his wife Arlene, who walked alongside him on his journey with such love and dedication and to Mel’s family here in Connecticut and beyond. All of us at WQUN will miss him every day.”

'More Than a Meterologist'

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Lt Gov. Nancy Wyman today issued a joint statement on the passing of Dr. Mel:

 “Dr. Mel was more than a meteorologist — with his charming character, warm smile and friendly personality, he became an icon in Connecticut and was loved by many.  Over the years, he entered the homes of millions of residents and in many ways became a member of our own families. He dedicated his working life to ensuring that the residents of Connecticut were prepared for whatever tumultuous weather system may approach, and for that we are forever thankful.  In true Dr. Mel fashion, he always handled himself with grace and dignity.  We send our thoughts and condolences to his family, friends and staff at WTNH. He will be missed.”

—Additional reporting by Fred Musante


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