A Bowtie Legacy Comes to a Close
West Michigan, grab your tissues because today we say goodbye to a true legend: Chief Meteorologist George Lessens. After an incredible 43 years at 13 ON YOUR SIDE (WZZM), George will sign off for the last time on Thursday night, November 27th, 2024. For many of us, George has been more than the man who told us if we needed an umbrella or sunscreen—he’s been part of the family.
George’s February Retirement Announcement
Weatherman’s Trusted Voice
George Lessens first joined 13 ON YOUR SIDE in 1980 as a weekend meteorologist. Back then, his forecasts were as reliable as his perfectly tied bowties. From humble beginnings, he quickly became the trusted face of weather in West Michigan. Over the decades, George guided us through snowstorms, scorching summers, tornado warnings, and those infamous Lake Michigan wind chills—all with unmatched professionalism and a warm smile.
His career wasn’t just about reading maps; George earned multiple Michigan Association of Broadcasters’ “Best Weathercast” awards and two Michigan Emmy Awards for Weather. When George talked weather, we listened—because he didn’t just forecast it, he explained it with care and a knack for making the complicated simple.
The Forecasted Storm: George Retires
Let’s be honest—none of us wanted this even with the February announcement. While George’s talent for predicting the unpredictable was second to none, his retirement announcement hit us like a rogue thunderstorm. And as forecasted, the end of the year has arrived sooner than later as George ends his year, and years, in November of 2024.
During his farewell broadcast, George thanked the community he’s served so faithfully: “I’d like to thank everyone for a wonderful career, and that means you as well at home.”
That’s classic George: heartfelt, humble, and forever focused on us, his viewers.
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Taking over for George is Samantha Jacques, a rising star who’s been part of the 13 ON YOUR SIDE family for four years. Samantha brings her own sunny energy to the role and, as George has assured us, she’s ready to step into his sizeable shoes.
“Over the past four years, Sam has demonstrated her ability to assume the role of Chief Meteorologist. She understands what West Michigan viewers want and expect from our team of meteorologists,” George said.
We’ll be watching, Samantha—just know that the bar has been set sky-high (or maybe just above the cirrus clouds).
Watch George’s Farewell
If you missed his farewell broadcast, don’t worry. You can still catch George’s final moments on-air, where he shares memories, gratitude, and his plans for the future.
Watch here: George Lessens’ Retirement Farewell
Thank You, George
For nearly 44 years, George Lessens has been the trusted voice guiding West Michigan through every season. From snowbound January mornings to the first sunny days of May, he’s been with us. His bowties became iconic, his forecasts became gospel, and his presence became a part of who we are as a community.
George, we wish you endless blue skies and fair weather in retirement. You’ve earned it, but know that West Michigan will always miss you on our screens.
May your days be filled with sunshine, your nights be peaceful, and your bowties always be perfectly tied.
Thank you, George Lessens, for a career that was nothing short of legendary.
