When I was a kid, I listened to Fritz Coleman on the radio in Buffalo, NY.

He left the radio gig to move to Los Angeles and work as a stand up comic. A couple of years in LA and he joined KNBC in 1982.

Now, the legendary Weatherman is signing off from the NBC O&O.

“This career has been a gift.  To work in the greatest news operation in Southern California has been the greatest experience of my life," said Coleman.  "I have also had the opportunity of raising my children, while working with a wonderful team.  I have made lifelong friends at NBC4 and in the community it serves.  I'm so very thankful.”

“Television viewers have faithfully welcomed Fritz into their homes for 39 years, and during this entire time, he has been an esteemed employee, a beloved friend and an outstanding corporate citizen,” said Steve Carlston, President and General Manager of NBC4.  “His retirement is our loss, but a well-deserved respite for him.”

Coleman signs off at the end of the month.

It has been one hell of a ride.