The King of Detroit news, Bill Bonds died yesterday after suffering a heart attack.

Bonds a broadcasting legend who made his name at WXYZ, starting at the station in 1963 and working there until 1968. He came back three years later in 1971 and worked there until his retirement in 1995., has died.

Bonds was one of the main reasons behind WXYZ's dominance in the ratings throughout the 70s, 80s, 90s and up into the millennium.

From an early age, it seems Bill Bonds was destined to become a journalist.

"I loved reading, I could read before I was in kindergarten," Bonds said."

The Bonds family released this statement.

"For us Bill was so much more than the face on TV, the talented anchorman.  He was a wonderful husband and father who cared deeply about his children and his family.  We will miss him greatly. 

Bill had a great passion for the news business. More than anything, he loved bringing the news to the people of Detroit. He believed we were a better community, if we were a well-informed community. 

We thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

 He was 82.

H/T WXYZ