Mark Walden, the chief meteorologist at WPTY in Memphis, died over the weekend from “apparent natural causes,” according to the station. He was 38.
“Our ABC 24 family is deeply saddened by the passing of chief meteorologist Mark Walden. He was highly respected among his colleagues and served this community as a gifted meteorologist and through his generous work with local charities. He touched our lives and will be greatly missed,” WPTY VP-GM Ardyth Dierks said in a statement.
Walden joined the ABC affiliate in 1999. WPTY described him as “as a gifted meteorologist with a passion for weather, and keeping our community safe and informed.”
The station reported the news of Walden’s death on the WPTY website Sunday morning. Rival stations WHBQ, WMC and WREG reported the news on the Sunday evening newscasts.
“Our family thanks everyone in the Mid-South for their condolences and kind words,” Walden’s wife, Jackquelynne Walden, said. “Mark really loved his viewers. He never met a stranger. And we’re grateful for all the prayers and support.”
Watch WPTY’s tribute to Walden after the jump.