By Joyce Mitchell
Born with an innate talent for television, Tip Kindel asked the tough questions, banged out stories in record time and rarely – if ever – missed a deadline. He possessed that special “golden voice” just perfect for TV. He was a true pro.
Kindel died unexpectedly on February 28, 2025. He was 81-years-old. His TV career was launched at KCRA Channel 3 in 1970, the early years of broadcasting. He was a general assignment reporter who covered elections and also traveled the world, explaining to viewers major events happening around the globe.
Tip Kindel at Valley Broadcast Legends with Gary Gerould (Gold Circle and Governors’ Award recipient)
Kindel and a photographer flew to the Falkland Islands, reporting on a major conflict brewing between two British territories in the South Atlantic. He was embedded in a war zone and not afraid to get the story about this battle for sovereignty. He also traveled to Hong Kong and South Korea.
“Kindel was a solid reporter who could cover any story thrown his way,” said former KCRA Capitol Correspondent Steve Swatt (SC 2016). He’s also remembered for overseeing a consumer division of the station “Call 3.” With a team of volunteers, Kindel responded to viewer concerns and helped to solve consumer issues.
Channel 3 Videographer Mike Domalaog (SC 2023) recalls Kindel’s quick ability to absorb new technology. “Tip was always ahead technology wise,” said Domalaog. “He was always messing with something you plugged in.”
From 1970 until 1980, Kindel worked tirelessly covering news until he was tapped by Channel 40 to head up the News Department. He became News Director and hired legendary Pete Wilson and Pat McConahay to co-anchor an alternative newscast. It consisted of in-depth lede stories and “news you can use.”
Kindel returned to KCRA a year later where he remained until 1988. A top-notch reporter, Kindel was also a talented line show producer and for a couple of years, was assigned to hold down the 5 O’clock one-hour newscast. He was a mentor and teacher, helping up-and-coming journalists learning the craft.
He left KCRA in 1988 when he was hired by the State of California. He eventually went to the California Department of Corrections where he served as Assistant Director of Communications for years.
He is survived by his wife Clair Kindel, children, and grandchildren. Kindel left his mark on TV, promoting excellence in journalism. His voice in the industry will be missed.
“I’ll always remember Tip’s voice sounded just like the guy that voiced all the announcements at Disneyland,” said Domalaog. “He just laughed when I mentioned that to him. Rest in peace reporter.”
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