A Sudden Loss: KOLD-TV Mourns the Passing of Ana Orsini
The newsroom at KOLD-TV in Tucson, Arizona, is grappling with the unexpected loss of their beloved colleague and friend, Ana Orsini. The 28-year-old anchor passed away suddenly last week due to a brain aneurysm, leaving behind a void in the hearts of her coworkers and viewers alike. On Monday, December 16, anchors Tyler Butler and Carsyn Currier delivered an emotional on-air tribute to Orsini, sharing their grief and fond memories with the community.
Orsini joined the KOLD-TV team in June 2023, quickly becoming an integral part of the station’s family. Both Butler and Currier, visibly shaken by the news, spoke of Orsini’s vibrant personality, both on and off camera. They emphasized that the energetic, humorous persona viewers witnessed during broadcasts was a true reflection of her genuine character. As a small gesture of remembrance, the anchors chose their attire for the day in honor of Orsini, with Butler sporting a blue suit and pink tie, and Currier wearing a magenta cardigan, a color particularly favored by their departed friend. Following their heartfelt words, a montage of Orsini’s memorable moments on air played, showcasing her talent and infectious enthusiasm.
Orsini’s family, also deeply mourning her loss, shared their wish for her to be remembered for her bright and sunny disposition. Reflecting her profound love for animals, they requested that donations be made to local animal shelters in lieu of flowers. This request underscored Orsini’s deep compassion and her dedication to animal welfare, a passion she demonstrated throughout her career. Orsini’s own rescue dog, Harley, undoubtedly held a special place in her heart.
The outpouring of grief and love extended beyond the KOLD-TV studio. Colleagues took to social media to express their condolences and share personal anecdotes about Orsini. Anchor Dan Marries, in a touching Instagram post, described Orsini as "one in a trillion," highlighting her wisdom, compassion, quick wit, and unwavering love for animals, particularly dogs. He also acknowledged the profound impact Orsini had on those fortunate enough to know her, expressing his heartfelt sympathy for the Orsini family.
Orsini’s career trajectory reveals a consistent dedication to journalism and a deep-seated commitment to animal welfare. Before joining KOLD-TV, she served as an anchor in Medford, Oregon, and as a reporter in Lubbock, Texas. During her time in Texas, she launched the "Pet of the Day" segment, a testament to her passion for animals. This segment provided a platform to showcase adoptable pets from local shelters, contributing to the well-being of countless animals in need.
The loss of Ana Orsini is a devastating blow to the KOLD-TV family and the wider community. Her vibrant spirit, infectious laughter, and dedication to her craft will be deeply missed. Her legacy, however, will continue to inspire, particularly her commitment to animal welfare. The "Pet of the Day" segment serves as a poignant reminder of her compassionate heart and her unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of animals.
The tributes pouring in from colleagues and friends paint a picture of a remarkable young woman whose life was tragically cut short. Her warm personality, genuine kindness, and unwavering dedication to her work left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Orsini’s memory will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives she touched, both human and animal. Her legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness, compassion, and pursuing one’s passions with unwavering dedication.
