WHEATON, Ill. (AP) _ Longtime Chicago television anchor John Drury died on Sunday, the TV station where he worked until his retirement announced. He was 80 years old.

Drury died at his home in Wheaton after a long battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, said Jennifer Graves, a vice president at Chicago’s ABC 7.

The Peoria-born Drury began working as a news anchor for ABC 7’s 10 p.m. newscast in 1984, retiring in 2002. He also worked earlier for several other Chicago television stations, including WGN. Drury started his broadcasting career in 1955 at WTMJ-TV in Milwaukee.

“John passed away peacefully this evening at his home surrounded by his family,” a Sunday statement from his family said. “Not only did he fight ALS, he gave back to the community by raising awareness to this disease.”

Former colleagues praised the celebrated newsman’s professionalism and storytelling skills.

“John was the consummate journalist — driven, passionate about telling the truth and, of course, a great communicator,” said Emily Barr, ABC 7’s president and general manager.

Drury is survived by his wife Ann, and by four children.

Posted 11/26/2007