1961-2026
Edward "Lucky" Kidd, 64, of McPherson, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.
Lucky was born on October 19, 1962, in Salina, Kansas, to Lester Edward "Ed" and LaVena Kay (Chrisman) Kidd. He spent his early childhood in Salina before his family lived in Lawrence for several years. In 1973, they made McPherson their home, where Lucky would establish lifelong roots. He graduated from McPherson High School in 1979 and later earned an Associate Degree in Communications from Hutchinson Community College, preparing for the career that would become his life's passion.
A gifted learner from the very beginning, Lucky displayed an extraordinary intellect as a young child. He began reading The Wall Street Journal at just two years old, completed the third grade within the first three weeks of school, and was advanced directly to the fourth grade. Even in childhood, his fascination with broadcasting was unmistakable. It was common to see him walking throughout town with headphones on, listening intently to the radio, already captivated by the voices and stories that would one day become his own.
Family time was important to Lucky. He treasured every opportunity to gather with those he loved, especially during Christmas, Thanksgiving, Super Bowl parties, birthdays, and other family celebrations. Many of those cherished occasions took place at his sister Elizabeth's home, where Frank's barbecue became a beloved tradition. He was an avid sports fan throughout his life, and few things brought him greater enjoyment than cheering on the University of Kansas Jayhawks.
Lucky devoted more than 35 years to broadcasting, earning the respect and admiration of listeners and colleagues alike through his unwavering commitment to local journalism. He began his career at KNEX shortly after graduating from McPherson High School and later became the longtime News & Public Affairs Director for Ad Astra Radio. His familiar voice became a trusted source of news, weather, sports, and severe weather coverage for communities across central and western Kansas.
Throughout his distinguished career, Lucky covered countless state athletic championships, breaking news stories, and significant events while interviewing notable figures that included Mikhail Gorbachev and Lech Wałęsa. Yet despite these remarkable opportunities, he remained deeply committed to hometown journalism and the people it served. In 2025, he received his first Kansas Association of Broadcasters Award of Excellence, recognizing a career defined by professionalism, integrity, and dedicated service to Kansas communities.
Lucky's love for McPherson extended well beyond the newsroom. He was the creative mind behind the beloved All Schools Day Medallion Hunt, delighting generations of families with imaginative clues that celebrated the community's history and traditions. His kindness, wit, enthusiasm, and generous spirit left an enduring impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Reflecting on his broadcasting career, Lucky often said it had given him "too many experiences to mention," describing it simply as "a fun ride." To the countless listeners who looked forward to hearing his unmistakable sign-off—"I'm Lucky Kiiidd!"—he will forever be remembered as a gifted storyteller, a trusted voice, and a loyal friend whose legacy will continue to resonate throughout Kansas.
Lucky is survived by his brother, Patrick Kidd of McPherson; his sister and brother-in-law, Liz and Frank Hedberg of McPherson; his niece and nephews, Shawn Lane, Matt Lane, and Beth Hedberg; his great-niece, Cheyenne Lafon; and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and LaVena Kidd.
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