Jim Turpin passes away

#9      
Se Il Illini
He was the voice of Illinois football and Illinois basketball when the primary venue for sports broadcasting was radio. In the early 60's, Fighting Illini broadcasts via the airwaves were an iffy proposition in Southeastern Illinois. I spent a lot of Saturdays in the fall and winter in my dad's car in our driveway listening to JIm Turpin and Illinois broadcasts. My love for the Illini can be traced directly to Jim Turpin's description of Illinois sports.
 
#16      
the national
A real shame to hear. I mostly recall being a young kid turning the dial on my little handheld radio to Football games with Jim on the call. He is synonymous with the Illini to me. Brian does a wonderful job but Jim captured my imagination as a kid.
 
#17      
Brosky
So sorry to hear this. He will for sure be missed. Turpin and Tate on Saturday mornings. Never missed the show. My best wishes go out to all the family members who are grieving now.
 
#21      
uinilli
Condolences here too:

Please check out "Turpin Times" by who else but Jim Turpin. Great read.

TV is nice, but there's something very special about radio. I remember listening to Illini-Syracuse in '89. Thrilling.
 
#23      
Birdus
Remember Jim doing the A & AA High School tournaments. He was great! Glad they are bringing those back to the HALL!
 
#24      
ptgrd23
Listened to Jim for 25 years until I moved away from C-U. Class act.
 
#25      
BoiseBaller
If you want a walk down memory lane, this mornings Monday Morning Quarterbacks show was dedicated to discussing Jim and his career/impact. Podcast is available on WDWS/News Gazette website or in your podcast app.
 
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