John Getter, an Emmy Award-winning journalist most notably at KHOU 11 in Houston, accomplished media consultant, and passionate space communicator, died this week at the age of 75 after a battle with cancer, according to his wife, Pat.
Getter’s career spanned more than five decades and crossed the boundaries of journalism, space exploration, leadership coaching, and community service.
When he left KHOU in 1997, Getter never fully left the broadcast journalism world. He continued at the network level, freelance producing for NBC News and ABC News.
"I worked with John on some of the most amazing stories over the years," Jimmy Wong, who worked with Getter as a KHOU and network news photographer told mikemcguff.com. "We flew on the NASA Zero gravity plane, went with the Texas National Guard to the border of Nicaragua during Iran-Contra, Moscow for the MIR space station problems, Venezuela for a story on killer bees. And on all of those stories and more, John was the most inquisitive and thoughtful reporter I ever worked with. I doubt we will ever see anyone as knowledgeable and, more importantly, anyone able to write a story that informed and connected people to the news."
Born in Ohio, Getter began his career as a reporter and anchor in the 1970s at WKEF and later WLWT Channel 5 in Cincinnati.
His passion for science and storytelling eventually led him to a 16-year career with KHOU, where he became known for his in-depth reporting on space exploration and technology. His work was frequently featured on CBS News and CNN.
Getter’s knowledge of space and science propelled him beyond journalism. He held senior executive roles at aerospace firms such as Spacehab and Space Media, Inc., where he played a key role in projects tied to the International Space Station, including the de-orbiting of the Russian Mir space station. His work helped bridge media and science, creating educational experiences and media content from orbit.
He later channeled his passion for space into public speaking, writing, and leadership training through Moonwalkers: To the Moon & Star Truck. Getter's dynamic and uplifting presentations, filled with stories from his years covering NASA and working in aerospace, inspired audiences to pursue excellence.
As President of the National Speakers Association Las Vegas Chapter, Getter led efforts to grow the organization and enhance its programming.
Outside his professional life, Getter was a civic leader and animal advocate. He served as Chairman of the Spring Valley Town Advisory Board, advising on land use and quality of life issues in the Las Vegas area. He was also a co-founder of Doberman Rescue of Nevada, reflecting his love for animals and commitment to community service.
Getter is survived by his wife, Pat, and a legacy of storytelling, inspiration, and exploration that touched lives around the globe. He encouraged others to reach beyond what they were to discover what they could become.
