Radio Tycoon Bill Caralis and Wife Pass Away Within Days of Each Other

Bill Caralis, the reclusive Australian radio tycoon, passed away on July 19 at the age of 82 at Pindara Private Hospital on Queensland's Gold Coast.

Just three days later, his wife Pam Caralis, co-proprietor of Australia's largest privately-owned radio network, died in the same hospital at age 85, on the day her husband's death was publicly announced.

Bill Caralis, who was once estimated to be worth $200 million, reportedly suffered a heart attack after visiting his wife, who had been battling a long-term chronic illness. Their joint funeral notice read, "Bill and Pam left an indelible mark on many people's lives. Their generosity to their staff and colleagues in the radio industry will never be forgotten. They were together for 60 years of marriage, inseparable in life and death."

Known for his reclusive nature, Caralis built a media empire, the Super Radio Network, comprising 42 stations across NSW and Queensland, including the iconic 2SM in Sydney. Despite his wealth, he maintained a low profile, rarely giving interviews or being photographed. One notable exception was in 2014, when he placed a newspaper ad to celebrate his golden wedding anniversary, which included the first verified photo of him in 50 years.

Caralis's frugality was well-known, with anecdotes of staff bringing their own toilet paper to work and his decision to withdraw 2SM from the Sydney radio ratings system in 2003, citing distrust in listener surveys. Despite these quirks, his contributions to the radio industry were significant, with many stations paying tribute to his dedication and passion for radio following his death.

Born in Greece, Caralis moved to Australia in 1945 and left school in his early teens to work in his father's grocer shop. He later ventured into property development and liquor retailing before acquiring his first radio station in 1987. His media holdings grew to include several regional broadcasters and notable stations like 2HD and NEWFM in Newcastle.

Bill and Pam Caralis are survived by their sons John and George, daughter Despina, and six grandchildren. Their joint funeral will be held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church at Clear Island Waters on the Gold Coast.

(Source: Daily Mail UK)