Dr. Mel Goldstein, a longtime meteorologist in the state, has died. He was 66.
Goldstein started a meterology club when he was in eighth grade, according to a bio on Western Connecticut State University's Web site.
He suffered from cancer and pneumonia, according to a report in the New Haven Register. He spent time at a hospice in Branford but was released on Thursday.
Dr. Mel died on Wednesday morning at Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven, hospital officials have confirmed.
Goldstein began working in television in the 1980s, according to his biography on WTNH's Web site.
“Dr. Mel was more than a meteorologist – with his charming character, warm smile and friendly personality, he became an icon in Connecticut and was loved by many. Over the years, he entered the homes of millions of residents and in many ways became a member of our own families," Gov. Dannel Malloy said. "He dedicated his working life to ensuring that the residents of Connecticut were prepared for whatever tumultuous weather system may approach, and for that we are forever thankful.”
“Dr. Mel was a dear friend and great public servant, who made every day brighter regardless of the weather," Sen. Richard Blumenthal said in a statement. "He committed his life to making others happier, and bringing sunshine into their lives through acts of kindness, small and large. He faced both life and death with profound and powerful grace, caring, and courage. I will miss him as a friend and model of humanity and humor.”
