Kent Boughton Obituary, Death: Legendary Nebraska Meteorologist Dies After Inspiring Battle with Cancer
The Nebraska broadcasting community is mourning the loss of veteran meteorologist Kent Boughton, whose decades of service made him one of the state’s most respected and recognizable weather forecasters. Boughton passed away on Sunday after a courageous battle with stage 4 cancer, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of professionalism, dedication, and public service.
His family confirmed his passing through a message shared on his official Facebook page, prompting an outpouring of condolences from fellow broadcasters, community leaders, and viewers across Nebraska who had welcomed him into their homes for generations.
Kent Boughton’s career in broadcasting began at an early age. At just 15 years old, he worked as a disc jockey at KRGI in Grand Island, discovering a passion for communication that would shape the rest of his life. After graduating from the Brown Institute, he accepted a position at KIFI-TV in Idaho Falls, serving as both sports and weather director before returning to his home state.
In 1979, Boughton became weather director at KHAS-TV in Hastings, where he quickly established himself as a trusted voice during Nebraska’s unpredictable weather seasons. His ability to explain complex weather patterns with clarity and confidence earned him the respect of viewers throughout the region.
After spending more than a decade in television, Boughton stepped away from broadcasting to focus on raising his family. While his departure marked the end of one chapter, his passion for meteorology never faded. He returned to television in 1999 as chief forecaster at KHGI-TV in Kearney, once again becoming a familiar face for thousands of Nebraskans.
Although he retired in 2023, Boughton remained committed to the profession he loved. He continued forecasting part-time for KLKN-TV before joining News Channel Nebraska in March 2025 as chief forecaster, where he continued sharing accurate forecasts and weather updates with viewers.
His contributions to broadcasting were formally recognized in 2024 when he was inducted into the Nebraska Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, an honor celebrating his decades of excellence and dedication to the industry.
Earlier this year, Boughton publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer after seeking medical attention for persistent voice problems. He explained that doctors discovered a tumor in his lung that had affected his tonsil and vocal cord. Despite undergoing treatment, he later shared that chemotherapy had not been successful and that the disease had spread.
Throughout his illness, Boughton remained remarkably transparent, updating supporters with honesty, courage, and optimism. His strength inspired countless people, many of whom continued sending messages of encouragement throughout his battle.
News of his death has sparked heartfelt tributes from colleagues, former coworkers, friends, and loyal viewers who remembered not only his exceptional forecasting abilities but also his kindness, humility, and willingness to mentor younger broadcasters. Many described him as a calming presence during severe weather events and a trusted professional who dedicated his life to serving Nebraska communities.
Kent Boughton’s influence extended far beyond television screens. His commitment to accurate reporting, his love for meteorology, and his genuine care for the people he served helped define a broadcasting career that spanned more than five decades.
He leaves behind an enduring legacy of excellence, compassion, and service that will continue to inspire future generations of journalists and meteorologists.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been publicly announced. As family, friends, colleagues, and viewers reflect on his life, Kent Boughton will be remembered as an outstanding broadcaster, respected mentor, and beloved member of Nebraska’s media community whose impact will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.
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