In Memoriam: Jack Etzel
June 27, 2025Long-time Channel 11 reporter Jack Etzel died Tuesday at the age of 91 according to Pittsburgh Magazine writer, Sean Collier. Etzel joined what was then WIIC in 1974 until retiring from the same station, as WPXI, in 1996. His main feature was called “Etzel at Large” – an ahead-of-its-time feature with good news of someone or something making Pittsburgh a better place. He was also the “Jack-of-all-Trades” reporter with handy tips for your home projects and do-it-yourself tips.
The handyman show continued on Renda Broadcasting’s WPTT (1360 McKeesport) for some years after Etzel left WPXI. A Franklin Park resident, he also contributed to North Hills Monthly Magazine, and taught media courses at LaRoche College. He even taught a newswriting course as a part of CCAC’s continuing education courses in which this editor participated in 1997.
Mr. Etzel also conceived the National “Holiday” of Look-alike Day” held every April 20. The day was celebrated on WPXI each year when he would scout the neighborhood looking for people who looked like someone famous.
He is loved and remembered by wife, Carol, and his four children.
