Dave Fortin, a northern Michigan broadcast legend, a former MI News 26 reporter, and a friend passed away Wednesday.

He was 81 years old.

Dave was on our TV screens for over five decades, starting out in Traverse City at 7&4 News.

Later, still wanting to scratch that reporting itch, we were honored to have him join what was then, the MI News 26 team.

He traveled across the area getting the big stories, exclusive interviews, and making a name as the broadcaster to trust.

Some of his favorite stories to cover were about crop yields and Northern Michigan's numerous festivals.

Dave was also best known for his annual 'Santa Watch' segments, where he would track Ol' St. Nick across the sky.

He loved doing that and we loved watching them.

The news up north will not be the same without that steady, deliberate delivery many of us grew up with.

Dave will be missed and we send our condolences to his wife, Joan.