A beloved Arizona TV news anchor has died at the age of 75, his family confirmed.
Frank Camacho had been battling prostate cancer and finally succumbed on Friday, according to a Facebook post penned by his loved ones.
He was known as a pioneer in the journalism industry and was credited as one of the first Mexican-American anchors on air in the Phoenix area.
Camacho’s celebrated career, which included interviews with presidents Gerard Ford and Barack Obama, began at local radio stations, as reported by AZ Central.
The journalist also spent some time working at the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce.
He then started working on television first as a reporter at CBS affiliate KPHO and then at Channel 3, where he also served as a weekend anchor.
‘Frank was a respected journalist known for his objective, intelligent, and witty style,’ his family said on Facebook.
‘While he interviewed numerous dignitaries, including U.S. Presidents Gerald Ford and Barack Obama, his favorite interviews were always with the everyday people of Arizona.’
Beloved Phoenix news anchor Frank Camacho died on Friday after a battle with cancer
Camacho was known as a pioneer in the journalism industry and was credited as one of the first Mexican-American anchors on air in the Phoenix area
Camacho retired from TV in 2012 and went on to work as communications director for the Arizona Democratic party.
Camacho’s family noted that, ‘Beyond his professional life, Frank was a passionate social justice activist, a devout Catholic, and a lifelong fan of the San Francisco Giants and Arizona Diamondbacks.’
They added: ‘He cherished every moment with his family, creating a legacy of love and treasured memories that will live on in the hearts of his loved ones.’
Camacho is survived by his wife Margie Camacho, their six children and 10 grandchildren.
Camacho’s colleague Daryn Kagan issued a statement honoring the late journalist, saying there, ‘simply was not a finer human.’
‘Somehow, I was lucky enough to have my desk right across from his for my 5+ years at Channel 3. When I think of all the things I learned during that time, far beyond what I learned as a journalist, is what I learned just watching Frank move through the world, his loyalty, his morals, his IMMENSE love for his family, these are the things I know I was meant to learn in my time in Phoenix,’ Kagan wrote on Facebook.
Journalist Tyson Milanovich also took a moment to remember Camacho on X.
Camacho retired from TV in 2012 and went on to work as communications director for the Arizona Democratic party
Camacho is survived by his wife Margie Camacho, their six children and 10 grandchildren
He wrote: ‘I started my career at @AZFamily on weekends and Frank Camacho was our longtime weekend anchor.
‘He covered some of the biggest political stories in Arizona history, yet was down to earth, kind and could be hilariously funny. A mentor, a true gentleman and a class act. RIP Frank.’
Fans of Camacho also posted tributes for him on Saturday after news of his passing.
‘I didn’t know Frank Camacho personally, but I watched him deliver the news for years,’ wrote Jim Omohundro.
‘He always seemed so kind, even through the TV screen. Seeing what others are saying after his passing, that kindness was real. Rest in peace, Frank.’
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