John Knicely has been named the 2025 Omahan of the Year by the Suburban Rotary Club of Omaha. Knicely has been a mainstay on Omaha television networks for many years as a sportscaster and news anchor on WOWT and KETV. He has become a favorite of the Omaha community through his news features of “John at Work” and “Kniceley Done, “giving viewers unique behind-the-scenes perspective through reporter-involved segments.
John served as Sportscaster for WOWT from 1974 to 1981, at which time he moved to St. Louis in the same capacity for KTVI, the ABC affiliate. He returned to Omaha and KETV in May 1984, and made the move back to WOWT in May 1992, this time as anchor of the 5, 6 and 10 p.m. newscasts.
His community spirit is always on display, and he emcees many charity events throughout the year. He has received numerous awards, including the Journalism Alumni Award of Excellence from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is a graduate of that university’s School of Broadcast Journalism.
He and his wife Sue have raised five children and have six grandchildren. He was born in Sidney, Nebraska.
According to Mary Bernier Chairman of the Four- Way Test Committee of the Suburban Rotary Club of Omaha, John was chosen by the 4-Way Test Committee because of his commitment to the Omaha Community. Through his fair and honest reporting, including his news segment “Knicely Done,” he has inspired our community to be and do better.
Knicely will be honored with the award at the Club’s weekly meeting at noon on June 5 at Legends Patio & Grill, 6920 Pacific St. Suite 100, Omaha, Neb. 68106.
