“Cruiser 980…Clear.”

That was the signature sign-off by Kansas City radio newsman Dan Verbeck for almost a quarter of a century on KMBZ 980 (AM) until what turned out to be a short-lived retirement (video below) in February 2008..

Verbeck announced today on public radio station KCUR, where he has been a general assignment reporter, that he will officially retire in March. He joined KCUR a few months after leaving KMBZ.

In all, he has spent nearly 50 years in the radio business.

Since 1974 Verbeck has covered virtually every major story in the KC area and the nation and was not afraid to ask tough questions. He covered the walkway collapse at the Hyatt Regency hotel in July of 1981, the Joplin tornado and the recent natural-gas explosion at JJ’s Restaurant. In 2005, he helped with coverage Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath in New Orleans.

“I have always admired Dan as a hard-boiled radio newsman who has a poetic and empathetic approach to the people in his stories,” said KCUR News Director, Frank Morris.

According to KCUR, Verbeck, Chicago native, began his career as a reporter and photographer for newspapers in the Chicago suburbs. He made the switch from print to radio during the two years he served in the U.S. Army.

He has been honored by the Missouri Broadcasters’ Association, The Associated Press and United Press International and was inducted into the hall of fame of the Kansas City Media Professionals.

Verbeck says he plans to “do anything he wants” during retirement, including spend time with his wife and five children, read American history and travel.