WMCA Pioneering Executive and 'True Gentleman,' R. Peter Straus Dies

A key player in the growth of New York radio has died. R. Peter Straus was responsible for WMCA becoming one of the top radio stations in the country.

“I was saddened to hear of the death of R. Peter Straus,” former WMCA air personality, Harry Harrison, tells FishbowlNY.

Straus, whose first name was Ronald, had two stints at WMCA. He joined the family business in the 1940s. His father, Nathan Straus bought WMCA in 1943. The elder Straus had been director of United States Housing Authority under President Franklin Roosevelt, and a New York state senator.

After becoming an executive at the International Labor Organization, part of the United Nations, Straus returned to WMCA, alongside his dad, in 1958.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in