Long-Time KCBS Reporter Bob Safford Dead After A Fall

(KCBS) -- Veteran KCBS newsman Bob Safford died at home last week, apparently after a fall.

Bay Area listeners knew Safford for his distinctive voice on KCBS 740 AM and KFRC 106.9 FM.

KCBS anchor Stan Bunger said, "It's never easy losing a friend, but when they're the kind who left so many indelible moments, at least you have some warm memories."

Safford was retired, but known to entertain fellow reporters at the Broadcast Legends luncheons reading headlines from bygone eras.

Bunger related a little known story about Safford--his role in Hollywood.  He narrated the film, "Tucker: A Man and His Dream."  Director Francis Ford Coppola called the KCBS newsroom, asking for Safford.  As was characteristic for Bob, he was going to have nothing to do with the prank caller, and hung up on him in his characteristically salty way.  Apparently, Coppola wasn't deterred, and ended up signing Safford for the role.

Listeners are posting condolences on Facebook Monday morning.