By David Robert | Published: June 19, 2026 | Source: WINK 104 statements, public Facebook post
HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA — Tim Burns, the longtime WINK 104 radio personality whose voice became a daily companion for thousands of listeners across Central Pennsylvania, has died. The beloved broadcaster, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the region’s radio history, is being remembered for a career that entertained audiences, mentored colleagues, and helped shape local broadcasting for decades.
News of Burns’ passing was shared by former colleagues, listeners, and WINK 104, where he became a household name as host of the station’s highly successful WINK Wake-Up Show. His death marks the loss of a broadcasting figure whose influence extended well beyond the studio and into communities throughout Harrisburg, Carlisle, Lebanon, and the surrounding region.
The Voice That Helped Define an Era of Central Pennsylvania Radio
Long before podcasts, streaming services, and social media transformed the media landscape, local radio personalities played a unique role in connecting communities. Few fulfilled that role more effectively than Tim Burns.
Burns began building his reputation in radio through positions at WAHT-AM in Lebanon and WKBO-AM in Harrisburg before joining WINK 104 during a pivotal period in the station’s history. As the original host of the WINK Wake-Up Show, he became one of the most recognizable voices in the market, helping establish the station as a dominant force in Central Pennsylvania broadcasting.
Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, WINK 104 consistently ranked among the region’s most-listened-to stations, with Burns serving as one of its signature personalities. His combination of humor, creativity, authenticity, and audience engagement transformed ordinary morning commutes into a shared community experience.
Listeners remember his memorable comedy bits, April Fool’s Day pranks, spontaneous interactions with callers, and ability to make audiences feel personally connected to the show.
For many Central Pennsylvanians, Burns was more than a radio host—he was a familiar voice that greeted them every morning for years.
A Broadcaster Respected by Colleagues and Listeners Alike
Beyond his popularity on the airwaves, Burns earned widespread respect within the broadcasting industry for his professionalism and mentorship.
Numerous colleagues have credited him with helping guide younger radio personalities as they developed their careers. Among them was longtime WINK 104 personality Sue Campbell, who publicly described Burns as an important mentor during her own rise in broadcasting.
His influence remained evident long after he stepped away from daily radio duties. Former coworkers frequently described him as approachable, encouraging, and deeply invested in the success of those around him.
In a tribute released following his passing, WINK 104 reflected on the qualities that made Burns so beloved among both listeners and colleagues:
“Tim’s smooth voice, witty sense of humor and contagious laugh endeared him to our listening friends for 17 years.”
The station’s tribute highlighted not only his broadcasting talent but also the personal connections he built throughout his career.
A former colleague who worked closely with Burns described him as both a mentor and a friend, recalling decades of shared memories and laughter that defined their professional relationship.
Tributes Highlight a Lasting Legacy
As news of Burns’ death spread across Central Pennsylvania, tributes quickly emerged from former coworkers, listeners, and community members.
PennLive described him as one of the region’s best-known radio voices, recognizing the impact he had on generations of listeners.
Former broadcaster Bruce Collier remembered Burns as “one of the best bosses” he had ever worked for and praised the easygoing style that made him successful wherever he worked.
Community member Heidi Linn recalled appearing alongside Burns during the Linglestown 250th Celebration parade in 2015 and remembered him as the “Radio Legend” of Central Pennsylvania.
Listeners shared similar sentiments, reflecting on the role Burns played in their daily lives. Many remembered laughing during morning drives, participating in station contests, and feeling connected to a personality who seemed as familiar as a neighbor.
Such tributes underscore the unique bond Burns cultivated with audiences throughout his career.
More Than a Radio Personality
After leaving full-time radio, Burns remained active in media-related work, including production, writing, and creative communications. Yet even as the industry evolved, his reputation as one of Central Pennsylvania’s defining radio personalities endured.
His career serves as a reminder of the enduring power of local media and the relationships forged between broadcasters and their communities.
While technology transformed how audiences consume information and entertainment, Burns’ success stemmed from timeless qualities: authenticity, humor, relatability, and a genuine appreciation for his listeners.
Those qualities helped make him a trusted voice across multiple generations.
Remembering Tim Burns
For thousands of listeners, Tim Burns provided far more than entertainment. He delivered companionship during early-morning commutes, laughter during stressful days, and a sense of connection that made local radio a vital part of community life.
His voice may no longer be heard on the airwaves, but his influence remains woven into the history of Central Pennsylvania broadcasting and the memories of the listeners he entertained for decades.
As tributes continue to pour in, one theme remains consistent: Tim Burns was not only a talented broadcaster but also a respected colleague, mentor, and friend whose legacy will endure long after the final sign-off.
Funeral and Memorial Information
At the time of publication, funeral and memorial service arrangements have not been publicly announced.
- Location: To be announced
- Date & Time: To be announced
- Protocol: Family members are expected to release additional details regarding services and memorial opportunities in the coming days.
Editorial Standards and Sources
This obituary report was prepared using verified statements from WINK 104, comments from former colleagues, publicly shared tributes from community members, and published reporting regarding Tim Burns’ broadcasting career. Information regarding age, cause of death, and funeral arrangements has not been independently confirmed and has therefore not been reported.
The article will be updated as additional verified information becomes available from family representatives or official sources.