WXYZ anchor Dave LewAllen following his last newscast and celebrating his 35 years at Channel 7. Photo credit: WXYZ-TV

At the end of last night's (4/13) 6 p.m. newscast, Dave LewAllen said goodbye WXYZ-TV (Detroit) viewers as he retires after 35 years.

LewAllen, first joined the station as a sports reporter in 1988. After nearly 15 years covering Detroit’s professional and college teams, he transitioned to news in 2002.

In announcing his retirement January 25, LewAllen called WXYZ-TV the only station he ever wanted to work for in broadcasting, adding that he's “been truly blessed to spend the majority of my career here. But the time is right for a next chapter.”

He also expressed his gratitude for the loyalty of Channel 7 viewers and the support they have shown throughout his career.

"I'm proud of Dave LewAllen's work in the newsroom and the connections he has made in the community," News Director Kennan Oliphant said. "Dave's commitment to journalism is unmatched and we will truly miss his contributions in the newsroom on a daily basis. We wish him much success."

As a sports reporter and anchor, LewAllen covered the Detroit Pistons' back-to-back title runs in the 80s, the Red Wings' return to glory in the 90s, a Michigan national championship in football and a Michigan State national title three years later.

Along the way, he earned the trust and respect of Detroit’s top athletes, coaches and owners including Kirk Gibson, Cecil Fielder, William Clay Ford, Jim Harbaugh, Tom Izzo and others.

After years on the weekend anchor desk, LewAllen was named anchor of 7 Action News at 6, 7 and 11 in 2018, serving alongside Carolyn Clifford and Glenda Lewis.

During his career, LewAllen has won many awards, including four Emmys. He was also inducted into the NATAS Michigan Silver Circle in 2012 for his service and achievements over 25 years in the broadcast industry.

Equally as impressive as LewAllen’s broadcasting career is his deep investment in the community. He has donated his time to countless charities including the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Cass Community Social Services Community and St. Patrick Senior Center in Detroit.

LewAllen served as president of the Rainbow Connection, which provides wishes for Michigan children with life-threatening illnesses. Today, he remains a member of the board. He is also a past president of the Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association.

LewAllen also served as chairperson of a charity golf outing for the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan for over a decade.

A proud alumnus of Central Michigan University, LewAllen played football for the Chippewas as a walk-on during his freshman year before concentrating on academics.

More photos from LewAllen's retirement party on the WXYZ website here.