Deanne Lane Death and Obituary – The St. Louis journalism community is mourning the loss of Deanne Lane, a pioneering reporter and longtime anchor at KSDK, who passed away at the age of 65. Lane’s death marks the end of an extraordinary career that spanned nearly three decades and left an indelible mark on local and national journalism. Known for her integrity, compassion, and fearless reporting, Lane became one of the most trusted voices in St. Louis news.
Deanne Lane joined KSDK in 1983 and quickly rose to prominence as the station’s iconic “Night Beat” reporter. At a time when local journalism was evolving rapidly, Lane distinguished herself through her ability to handle complex and emotionally charged stories with clarity and humanity. Her calm presence and sharp instincts made her a reliable guide for viewers during moments of crisis and uncertainty.
Over the course of her career, Lane covered some of the most significant national tragedies of her era. Her reporting included major events such as the Columbine High School shooting, Hurricane Katrina, and the Oklahoma City bombing. In each instance, Lane balanced factual precision with empathy, helping audiences understand not only what happened but why it mattered. Her work during these difficult moments exemplified journalism at its most responsible and impactful.
Lane’s contributions to local journalism were equally profound. During her nearly 27 years at KSDK, she reported on defining stories that shaped the St. Louis region, including the Missouri Miracle and the tragic Kirkwood City Hall shooting. One of her most notable accomplishments was a groundbreaking investigative series on homelessness. To better understand the realities faced by unhoused individuals, Lane spent five days living on the streets, an immersive approach that demonstrated her deep empathy and commitment to truth-telling.
Colleagues remember Deanne Lane as both a consummate professional and a joyful presence in the newsroom. KSDK Sports Director Frank Cusumano described her as a natural-born broadcaster, noting that she helped build the station into what it is today. He praised her energy, poise, and confidence, emphasizing that Lane thrived when covering the biggest stories and brought passion and fun to her work every day.
Beyond her professional achievements, Lane was admired for her warmth, generosity, and mentorship. She supported younger journalists, encouraged collaboration, and fostered a newsroom culture rooted in respect and curiosity. Her influence extended far beyond the stories she told, shaping the careers of many who worked alongside her.
Deanne Lane is survived by her husband, Chris Pappas, and her son, Griffin Goodrich. As St. Louis mourns her passing, the community also celebrates a life devoted to truth, service, and storytelling. Lane’s legacy will endure through the journalists she inspired and the countless viewers whose lives were touched by her work.