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WHAK/WHSB Founder Harvey Klann Passes

Harvey Klann

True North Radio Network has reported the July 25 death of WHAK-FM/WHSB-FM (Rogers City/Alpena) founder Harvey Klann. Klann was 97.

He was born on June 11, 1923 in Rogers City to Alfred and Hattie (Dost) Klann. He was a lifelong resident of Rogers City, except for time spent in the military during World War II.

While in the military he taught electronics in Missouri and then served in India at the CBI radio transmission headquarters. After military service, he helped create and organize the Rogers City Broadcasting Corporation constructing and managing radio station WHAK in 1948 and WHSB Alpena in 1964.

Harvey married Janice Hess of Fowlerville, Mich., in 1956. She was his loving helpmate and faithful partner for over 60 years.

He is survived by: his children, Becky (Joel) Carlson of Jenison, MI; Dan (Vicki) Klann of Holt, MI; and Janet (Eric) Fenstemaker of Maryville, TN.

Harvey is also survived by eleven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by: His wife Janice (2017), parents Alfred and Hattie, and two brothers Norman and Albert.

The family will hold a private service in the near future.

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