Sima Birach, Sr., founder of Birach Broadcasting Corporation and a pioneer in ethnic and independent radio, passed away on October 14 at age 86 from natural causes after an extended hospitalization. He would have turned 87 on November 21.

Born in the former Yugoslavia, Mr. Birach came to the United States in 1965 and soon launched his own radio and television programs, The Yugoslav Variety Hour, serving immigrant audiences with news and culture from home. His passion for broadcasting led him to build his first station, WNZK-AM in Detroit, which signed on October 12, 1985. Nearly 40 years later, WNZK remains on the air as part of his enduring legacy.

Under his leadership, Birach Broadcasting grew to operate 26 radio stations, including properties in Chicago, Detroit, Pittsburgh, and Washington, D.C., along with one low-power TV station.

Mr. Birach was buried October 23 at Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit following services at St. Lazarus Serbian Orthodox Cathedral. He is survived by his son and two daughters, Sasha and Liz.

Sima Birach

BIRACH BROADCASTING CORPORATION ; 21700 Northwestern Hwy * Tower 14 * Suite 1190

Ph:(248)-557-3500  Fax:(248)-557-3241  email:sima@birach.com