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Radio Pioneer And WSLM Owner Dies At The Age Of 90

Last updated on Tuesday, August 24, 2010

(SALEM, IN) - Radio pioneer and owner of radio station WSLM passed away over the weekend.

Don Martin passed away Sunday afternoon at the age of 90.

After returning from the marines, Martin attended Indiana University to become an English teacher.

Using money he had saved during his time as a teacher, Martin founded WSLM 1220AM.

When Martin arrived at the new station to officially begin broadcasting, he discovered that thieves had broken into the building and stolen the majority of their equipment.

Martin later jokingly stated to local press that "it was nice of them to (clear the snow) and make us tracks into the station."

Authorities tracked Martin's equipment to an area near Cincinnati, Ohio where it was recovered in good shape.

The station signed on shortly thereafter on Valentine's Day in 1953.

The Associated Press carried the story, naming the station "The Sweetheart Station of the Nation."

Funeral services for Don Martin will be on Wednesday at 1:00PM at Dewalt Funeral Home in Salem.

Visitation will be from 4:00PM until 8:00PM today at the funeral home.

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