Bob Elliott

One of the great comedians of the 20th century -- via the New York Times. With his lifelong partner Ray Goulding, entertained generations with sharp, surreal, and subversive humor as Bob and Ray They came along late in the days of network radio, starting out at Boston's WHDH, then moved on to New York, where they did television as well. Periodic revivals of interest, such as their Broadway show "The Two and Only" and and revival of their show in a half-hour format on public radio, reminded us of their demented genius.

Who else could have given us "The Komodo Dragon" sketch, or "The Slow Talkers of America"? The soap opera "Garish Summit"? "Mary Backstayge, Noble Wife"? Or sponsors such as Einbinder Flypaper or Monongahela Metal Foundry?

Here are some of Bob's signature characters -- Wally Ballou, the world's worst broadcaster (Ray played his wife, Hulla); sportscaster Biff Burns, Tex Blaisdell, who did rope tricks on the radio, assorted dullards, and one of the McBeeBee twins.

Elliott spawned two more generations of comedians -- his son Chris  and granddaughter Abby.