A Life of Service and Mentorship
Wayne 'Knobby' Kelliher, a revered football coach and longtime radio analyst at Madison East High School, died at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy that shaped countless athletes and broadcasters in the Madison community.
Born in the early 1930s, Kelliher excelled at the University of Wisconsin, where he played baseball before serving in the United States Air Force on Okinawa, Japan. After his military service he began a teaching and coaching career that took him to New Richmond and Wisconsin Dells before he settled into a long tenure at Madison East.
From 1969 to 1995 he served as head coach for both football and baseball, guiding the football team to three Big Eight titles and two playoff appearances. His impact on the diamond was recognized when the school named its baseball field in his honor, and his teams were celebrated for discipline and sportsmanship.
Beyond the sidelines, Kelliher became a familiar voice on WTSO‑AM 1070, where he partnered with Adam Eichstedt and Jimmie Kaska as a play‑by‑play announcer. Colleagues repeatedly praised his ability to break down complex plays and his willingness to mentor younger broadcasters, creating a supportive environment that elevated the station’s sports coverage.
His contributions earned him induction into both the Madison Sports Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin High School Football Hall of Fame. The honors reflected not only his on‑field successes but also his deep community involvement and the respect he commanded across generations.
Friends and former players remember Kelliher for his kindness, welcoming nature, and the personal connections he forged with students and athletes alike. His approachability made him a mentor to many, including fellow broadcasters who credited him with shaping their careers.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 29, at Ryan Funeral Service and Legacy Center in Madison, with a visitation beginning at 11 a.m. The ceremony will celebrate a life devoted to sport, education, and community.