Longtime KDKA-AM radio talk host Fred Honsberger died this morning. He was 58.

The station reported that Mr. Honsberger died at home following a lengthy battle with medical issues.

Mr. Honsberger had been a talk host at the station since 1989. His last show was Dec. 8.

"The NEWSRADIO 1020 KDKA family is deeply saddened to learn that Fred has passed away," said Michael Young, senior vice president and market manager for CBS Radio in Pittsburgh. "Fred truly loved the Pittsburgh area, the KDKA listeners and his colleagues at the station. His immense passion and the enjoyment and pride he took in preparing and producing his shows will be greatly missed."

Mr. Honsberger celebrated 30 years on KDKA this year. He joined the station in 1979 as a news reporter. He later worked as news director and, in 1989, launched a daily talk show.

As talk radio became a popular forum of discussing issues, Mr. Honsberger's opinionated approach often sparked controversy among listeners.

Before joining Group W Radio, now CBS Radio, Mr. Honsberger was news director at WKBO Radio in Harrisburg and served as operations director at WRSC/WQWK in State College.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

More details in tomorrow's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

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