Bruce Dold, Guiding Light of Chicago Journalism, Passes Away

It's with a heavy heart, really, that we share the news of Bruce Dold's passing. For anyone who's ever picked up a Chicago Tribune, or simply cared about good, honest journalism, Bruce was more than just a name in the masthead; he was, quite frankly, a pillar. He spent nearly forty years dedicating his life, his intellect, and his unwavering integrity to the paper, guiding its voice through so many pivotal moments in our city's history.

Bruce wasn't one of those journalists who just parachute in and out. No, he was deeply, intrinsically Chicagoan. He joined the Tribune way back in 1978, starting out as a reporter – you know, pounding the pavement, getting the facts firsthand. That foundation, that deep understanding of how stories are built from the ground up, stayed with him always, even as he climbed the ranks.

His ascent, when you think about it, was pretty remarkable. From the hustle of a reporter, he moved to the editorial board, eventually becoming its editor in 1997. And for seventeen years, he steered the Tribune's editorial page, crafting opinions that weren't just headlines, but truly shaped conversations across the state. Then, in 2014, he took on the monumental role of editor-in-chief, leading the entire newsroom, navigating the choppy waters of a rapidly changing media landscape.

What really defined Bruce, beyond the titles and the long hours, was his absolute commitment to public service journalism. He believed, profoundly, that a newspaper had a sacred duty to its readers, to hold power accountable, and to champion the interests of ordinary people. His editorials were always meticulously researched, fiercely independent, and brimming with a clear, moral compass. He didn't shy away from difficult truths, and frankly, that's a rare and precious quality.

Colleagues, myself included, will remember him not just for his sharp intellect, but for his quiet strength and his genuine kindness. He was a mentor to so many, always willing to listen, to offer advice, and to push you to be better. He had this calm, thoughtful demeanor, but beneath it was a steely resolve, especially when it came to protecting the integrity of the newsroom and the quality of the journalism.

Bruce Dold leaves behind an incredible legacy. He was a champion for Chicago, for robust civic debate, and for the kind of journalism that truly matters. His impact on the Chicago Tribune, and indeed on the broader landscape of American journalism, is something that will endure for a very long time. We'll certainly miss his steady hand and his profound dedication. It really is the end of an era.