His voice is one of the most well-known in all of Chicagoland – especially to sports fans.
Many a time over the past 40 years has Wayne Messmer stepped onto the field, court or ice to serenade fans with “The Star Spangled Banner” before a contest.
From Chicago Stadium to Wrigley Field, north side and south, the soloist’s renditions have always struck a cord with supporters of all teams.
It’s a gift that Messmer has never taken for granted, especially after it was nearly taken away from him three decades earlier.
That, however, is just one part of Wayne’s story as the native of the southwest side of Chicago has worked in radio, been a public address announcer, and even helped to start a hockey franchise.
He’s even an author, too, but its singing that continues to bring him joy, whether signing by himself or with his wife, Kathleen, by his side.
We’re featuring Wayne’s journey in this edition of “Chicagoans You Should Know” from Ankin Law, where we spotlight people making an impact in our community.
You can watch this story in the video.
