It’s with a sad heart that we report that long time Erie media and advertising stalwart and local blogger Jack Tirak passed away today. Thanks to everyone that sent us the news. At first, we were hoping it wasn’t true, but we soon after saw this blog post from Tom Lavery in Pittsburgh.

Jack’s blog was a great inside look at media, both radio and television, and he was a crusader when it came to getting Erie’s TV stations to broadcast in HD. He was strong-willed, but fair, and always gave commenters, local media members and media alumni a platform to share their views.

I got to hang out and talk shop with Jack at many of the Erie Blogger get-togethers over the last year. He was always interested in new technology and whenever I had a question, he would quickly get back to me with great information and direction.

Thanks, Jack, for all you’ve done for Erie. We’ll miss you.

We’ll post news about the arrangements once their made available by the family.