Longtime KSDK anchor and reporter Deanne Lane, a trusted and familiar face in St. Louis television news for decades, has died at the age of 65. Lane passed away on Friday at Mercy Hospital St. Louis in Creve Coeur.
Deanne Lane’s Career
Deanne Lane joined KSDK, Channel 5, in 1983 and soon became the station’s well-known “Night Beat” reporter. Over nearly 27 years, she covered some of the most consequential national and local stories, including the Columbine shooting, Hurricane Katrina, and the Oklahoma City bombing.
Her local reporting included the Missouri Miracle, the Kirkwood City Hall shooting, and a powerful series on homelessness, during which she lived on the streets for five days to document the issue firsthand.
“Deanne helped to build KSDK,” said Sports Director Frank Cusumano. “She was the daughter of a legendary broadcaster and she became a legendary broadcaster. She had the right dose of energy, poise and confidence. The bigger the story, the better she was. She was passionate about her work and was really wonderful to be around. I can’t ever remember being around her when she wasn’t a lot of fun.”
KSDK General Manager Alicia Elsner also reflected on Lane’s impact, saying, “Deanne Lane was a beloved member of our KSDK family who brought truth, compassion, and integrity to every story she told. She didn’t just report the news—she made a difference in the lives of those she covered and those who watched her.”
Lane left KSDK in 2009 after more than 25 years at the station.
Deanne Lane’s Family
Deanne Lane is survived by her husband, Chris Pappas, and her son, Griffin Goodrich. Remembering her life and work, Elsner added, “While we are heartbroken by her loss, we celebrate her remarkable 20+ year career and a life well-lived in service to others.”
