Don Woods passed away last night at age 84 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Don was Channel 8's first meteorologist when the station went on the air in 1954. That's when his beloved character "Gusty" was born and a few years ago, state lawmakers named Gusty as Oklahoma's official cartoon. Several folks who have known Don say his legacy will continue through Gusty.
"I grew up watching Don on TV," says Roberta Allen.
Now, Allen is making life size Gusty's and continuing on with the message of Don Woods.
"Gusty will still continue on that was his hearts desire and we are ready to keep going on with the goals and dreams that we worked and planned and we have prepared over these last several months," says Allen.
The plan that Allen and Woods have put in place is there are smaller versions of Gusty that will be decorated by students in each Oklahoma county. They will tell the story of what makes their countries so great. So, there will be 77 of them and they hope to have the project done by the state fairs so that everyone in Oklahoma can enjoy Gusty. This legacy of Gusty continuing is something his friends are happy to see continue
"So many people grew up through their early years with Don Woods and Gusty and now to be able to share that, continue with the next generations. I can't think of a more fitting tribute and memorial to Don Woods," says Sports Anchor, Chris Lincoln.
Lincoln shared the anchor desk with Don for many years and says when he learned of his passing last night he just reflected on how much he meant to him.
"Just how much I am going to miss a really good friend and good person. He had such a great heart. He helped so many people. He loved the weather. He loved Gusty and loved Oklahoma," says Lincoln.
Governor Mary Fallin released this statement, "For more than 30 years, Don Woods was a welcomed fixture in homes all across Oklahoma as he and 'Gusty' gave us the weather forecast. He brought professionalism and expertise to television meteorology through his work at KTUL. He will be sorely missed by all. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, his friends and his former colleagues during this difficult time."
Mayor Dewey Bartlett released this statement as well, ""Don Woods scratched out an image of Gusty on a piece of drawing paper so many years ago that became a national icon. Don is an amazing story. I remember not very long ago, I was at the station preparing to be a guest on the morning show and through the front door flew in Don with a big hug for Betty at the front desk. Don then sat next to me and I had the honor to spend 15 minutes with him. With what he had been through and at the age of 84, his spirit and contagious energy left me smiling and breathless. Don Woods was a dear, sweet and kind gentleman and I am a better man for knowing him."
There is no public funeral or memorial planned for Don Woods. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that any donations be made in Don Woods name to Dove Ministry, 2833 West Main, Jenks, OK 74037.
