Robert Gold

Born in 1932 to Florence and Nathan Gold he married his beloved late wife Durelle, in 1955. Together, they had a family of three children, Jim, Kim and Jeff, which now extends to eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Mr. Gold took great delight in his ever-growing family. With a puckish nature, wry sense of humor and twinkle in his eye, he was adored, admired and respected by family, friends and colleagues.

Mr. Gold was an influential and creative broadcasting executive, who played a significant role in the cultural life of Maine, by further introducing country music through his flagship radio stations WPOR AM/FM in Portland, which he acquired in 1971. Shortly thereafter, he separated the AM format of traditional country and moved to FM, a more progressive format. The growing listenership of these stations provided audiences for live performances, and Mr. Gold brought in such renowned performers as Loretta Lynn and Jerry Lee Lewis. His popularity earned him the nickname “Country Bob” and the distinction, in a Nashville awards program, of being a Country Music Hall of Fame Speaker and a “Pioneer in country music radio” in the early 1970s. He was further honored when named Maine Broadcaster of the year in 1996.

While he owned other radio stations, WRDO in Augusta and WFEA in Manchester, N.H., Portland was his home. He worked tirelessly to better his beloved city and the State of Maine. Whether it be championing philanthropic causes such as Children’s Miracle Network with Barbara Bush, conferring with Senator Margaret Chase Smith in Washington on critical issues for Maine, serving on the board of Maine Association of Broadcasters, or simply creating a local platform and precursor to current internet formats in which WPOR listeners could connect with one another to sell or buy everyday items, he pursued his wide-ranging interests and talent with unbridled enthusiasm.

Aside from his business pursuits, Mr. Gold was an avid golfer and longtime member of Purpoodock Golf Club, Southern Maine Seniors Golf Association and Maine Seniors Golf Association. He enjoyed the camaraderie of the game and his many friendships developed throughout the years.

Later in life, he spent the winter months in Florida, further expanding his network of friendships and interests, and returned to Maine for its glorious summers and falls. It is fitting that he spent his last months in the place he so loved.

A proud veteran, who served in the Korean conflict with the United States Air Force, Mr. Gold will be buried with military honors.

A time of visitation to pay respects to the family will be held Friday Nov. 4 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland.

After a private interment at Evergreen Cemetery, relatives and friends are invited to attend a “Celebration of Life” to be held on Nov. 5 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Purpoodock Golf Club, 300 Spurwink Ave., Cape Elizabeth.

To send a tribute in Bob’s memory please visit http://www.jonesrichandbarnes.com.

In lieu of flowers,

contributions may be made in Bob’s memory to the

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals,

The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital,

c/o Maine Medical Center

22 Bramhall St.

Portland, ME 04102