Ben Arnet – Sports Director, Father and Friend of Sports of Komu 8 – Died at 43 | News
(Komu) – It is with deep sadness that Komu 8 announces the death of sports director Ben Arnet, 43, Thursday.
Ben had managed the Komu 8 sports department for five years, after mandates covering sports in Arizona, Kansas and North New York, as well as almost a decade of anchoring of the coverage for Mizzou Athletics.
Originally from Columbia and a graduate of Hickman High School, Ben’s passion for sport was apparent early and led him to the Missouri School of Journalism, first as a student and later as an instructor and colleague.
“I firmly believe that what we do best, we do together, and Ben adopted this philosophy in his work,” said Komu 8 director Matt Garrett. “Being the sports director of Komu 8 means bringing the students with you at each stage, and sometimes it can be difficult if you do not have the passion that Ben had to see the next generation of sports journalists take shape before his eyes. He was a great asset for Komu 8 and a monument in the travels of students and staff who worked with him.
Ben’s passion for the narration, in particular on the sports of Mid-Missouri, touched countless viewers and inspired the next generation of journalists who worked alongside him.
“The Missouri School of Journalism and Komu have lost a sports veteran, a devoted mentor and a colleague accomplished in Ben Arnet,” said Dean David Kurpius. “In addition to being a beloved voice in the community as a sports director of Komu-TV, Ben was a key element of the annual tradition of Komu de fever on Friday evening, during which he would help students coordinate the coverage of secondary school games everywhere in Missouri.
A devoted journalist, a appreciated colleague and a beloved friend, Ben was precious by our community. The thoughts and prayers from everyone to Komu 8 are with Ben’s family right now. More information will be shared when they are available.
