A Connecticut legend has died

WLAD meteorologist Dr Mel passed away Wednesday at the age of 66.  From the time he was a young boy, Dr. Mel Goldstein has been fascinated by the weather. So fascinated, he started a meteorology club when he was in the 8th grade, and decades later, the club is still in existence.  

Mel was recently hospitalized for pneumonia, but was back home this week.  He lived with multiple myeloma for more than 15 years.

Berkshire Broadcasting General Manager Irv Goldstein says Dr Mel will be sorely missed.

Dr Mel's Branford home was seriously damaged by Tropical Storm Irene, something he spoke often of his battle with FEMA on WLAD in the storm's aftermath. 

A popular meteorologist- Dr. Mel wears many hats. Since 1970, Mel has taught at Western Connecticut State University, where he developed the Weather Center and established the first and only Bachelor's degree program in meteorology in Connecticut.

He also developed a severe-storm prediction index used by numerous electric utilities across the country.

Dr. Mel has made the transition to author by writing "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Weather."  Proceeds from the book are donated to cancer research.

Mel leaves behind a wife, Arlene and two daughters Laura and Melodie and a grandson.

Dr Mel and the WLAD staff at WCSU where Mel recieved an award in 2007

Western Connecticut State University put together this tribute video for Dr Mel when they announced the creation of a scholarship in his name.  This endowment was created to provide scholarships to sophomores, juniors or seniors who are majoring in meteorology. Scholarships will be awarded to students who are in the top 10 percent of the class, preferably in the theoretical meteorology track.

Dr. Mel has received a number of awards, including the President’s Medal at WCSU for his years of teaching and community service, the Connecticut Bloomer Award for his contributions to the State of Connecticut, and a nomination for an Emmy for a series of education vignettes about the weather. In addition, he has received honorary doctorate degrees from Albertus Magnus College and Mitchell College, and he has received the President’s Award from Quinnipiac University. For eight consecutive years, Dr. Mel has been voted Connecticut’s best television weatherperson in a reader’s poll of Connecticut Magazine.

US Senator Richard Blumenthal released this statement on Dr Mel's passing:

“Dr. Mel was a dear friend and great public servant, who made every day brighter regardless of the weather. He committed his life to making others happier, and bringing sunshine into their lives through acts of kindness, small and large. He faced both life and death with profound and powerful grace, caring, and courage. I will miss him as a friend and model of humanity and humor.”

Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman today released the following statement on the passing of Dr. Mel Goldstein:

“Dr. Mel was more than a meteorologist – with his charming character, warm smile and friendly personality, he became an icon in Connecticut and was loved by many.  Over the years, he entered the homes of millions of residents and in many ways became a member of our own families.  He dedicated his working life to ensuring that the residents of Connecticut were prepared for whatever tumultuous weather system may approach, and for that we are forever thankful.  In true Dr. Mel fashion, he always handled himself with grace and dignity.  He will be missed.”