1 of 5 New Notables Displays At Grundy County Museum Features Former KTTN Owner

Gabe Stark
Reporter

The Grundy County Museum has opened a new group of summer exhibits as part of its annual “Notables of Grundy County” exhibit.

The exhibit features five former Grundy County residents whose lives, work and service left a lasting impact locally and beyond. Each display uses photographs, historical information and other materials to help tell the story of the person being recognized. The exhibit is expected to remain on display through October. Admission to the Grundy County Museum is free.

One of this year’s featured displays honors Marvin Luehrs, a longtime broadcaster, civic leader and co-founder of the Grundy County Historical Society and Museum.

Luehrs beginnings & career

Luehrs was born Dec. 5, 1928, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and grew up in a family with German roots and a strong Lutheran faith. His father, Martin Luehrs, taught at Trinity Lutheran School for 40 years. Marvin graduated from Sheboygan North High School in 1946, served two years in the U.S. Marine Corps and graduated from the University of Iowa in 1952.

After beginning his career in telecommunications, Luehrs entered radio broadcasting. From 1957 to 1968, he owned WJIL Radio in Jacksonville, Illinois, where he also became active in local history efforts.

In 1968, Luehrs purchased KTTN AM in Trenton. He added FM service in 1978 and operated the station for 25 years, becoming a familiar voice in north-central Missouri. He also co-owned KMMO in Marshall for more than three decades.

Community involvement

The museum display highlights Luehrs not only as a broadcaster, but also as a community builder. He served on the Board of Directors at Missouri Valley College, was president and co-founder of the Grundy County Historical Society and Museum and was involved with Rotary, the Cancer Society, Trenton Lake Association, Wright Memorial Hospital Advisory Board, North Central Missouri College Foundation, Immanuel Lutheran Church and the Missouri Broadcasters Association.

He also served as president of the Trenton Chamber of Commerce, contributed to the Grundy County Industrial Council and coached youth baseball for nine years.

Luehrs later retired to Sarasota, Florida, where he died Jan. 24, 2023, at age 94.