An outpouring of love has appeared on social media following the announcement of the death of former CBS 21 anchor Robb Hanrahan.
Hanrahan retired in 2021 following a near-fatal heart attack the previous year. He told PennLive in an interview following his retirement that his near-death experience was “the most profound, enlightening experience I’ve ever had.”
Hanrahan’s death was announced on July 4, and while a cause of death has not yet been announced, the news has led many people to publicly share their feelings of loss and love for their former coworker and friend.
CBS 21 colleague Kyle Rogers said that Hanrahan “was one of the best in the business” in a post on his Twitter page.
“Robb made me better, guided me along the way & cheered me on,” Rogers said. “Sending love to Stacey, the kids & family.”
“This one really hurts,” said CBS 21 anchor Tom Russell, sharing an image of he and Hanrahan together on a previous July 4. “Look at the date on this photo. 3 years ago today, Robb Hanrahan and I worked this holiday together at CBS 21. Now he’s gone. I’ll miss you, Robb.”
Among the many sharing their condolences and sorrow are several anchors from ABC27, where Hanrahan also worked for a time. ABC27′s Twitter account shared the news, noting that Hanrahan was “a decade-long competitor and friend, and a one-time co-worker of some of the longest-tenured abc27 staff members.”
“A big loss for Central Pennsylvania,” said ABC27 anchor Alicia Richards on her Twitter page. “My heart breaks for Robb Hanrahan’s family and his work family. On every occasion that we crossed paths, it struck me that he was an excellent journalist and a gentleman. I will miss you, Robb.”
“Terrible news,” said ABC27 anchor Dennis Owens. “Please say a prayer for Robb’s wife and son. He was a good guy and Uber talented anchor. He is also a Channel 27 alum. He will be greatly missed.”
Matt Maisel, director of communications for the city of Harrisburg, said that “my heart hurts in so many ways right now.”
“Robb was one of those guys who aim to earn their respect, but better than that, someone I was lucky to call a friend,” Maisel said on Twitter. “He was a tremendous journalist and an even better dad and husband”
Pennsylvania state senator Jay Costa said that “Robb was a diligent and professional journalist. I want to extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”
“I am profoundly saddened for Robb’s passing,” said Pennsylvania lieutenant governor John Fetterman. “I’m so grateful to have known him.”
Fetterman went on to talk about how the two had both had sons starting kindergarten at the same time, as well as shared medical scares, adding that “I’m so very sad for his family’s immense loss.”
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