Steve Jacobson
1948-2001
Transmitter Engineer
WPIX-TV

Steve was a 22 year veteran of WPIX who started as a transmitter operator at the Empire State Building. He worked on the 1981 antenna installation as well as the 1993 transmitter upgrade. His job at the WTC was to maintain the transmitter facility. He also maintained the microwave remote pickup that was used for live shots.

Most of the time he worked alone at WTC. Under those circumstances, it was important that he showed the initiative to keep on top of things, to assure high quality and reliable operation. In 175,000 hours at the WTC since 1981, less than 2 hours of cumulative air time were lost due to transmitter malfunction.

As an indication of Steve's dedication to the job, during the 1993 bombing of WTC, he stayed on the job until midnight, enduring heavy smoke conditions until the fire was put out, to assure that the transmitter was operating properly when power was restored. He also helped the NYPD Emergency Service Unit remove obstructions on the roof to allow a helicopter to land. In 1996, in the middle of a 26 inch blizzard, he walked 2 miles from home to fix a problem that could have knocked the transmitter off.

Steve was very active in his religious community. He often participated in leading services, and during an 8 month period of overnight work beginning Aug., 2000 (for installation of the digital TV antenna), he would get off work at 7am and open his temple for morning services.

Steve is survived by his wife of almost 30 years, Deborah, and their two daughters, Rachel and Miriam.

All of us here at CW11 and throughout our Tribune family would like to thank Steve for his many years of dedication, courage, and caring to our television station and our company. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.

"We will never forget you, Steve."