Longtime CNBC anchor Mark Haines dies suddenly

Mark Haines, an anchor at CNBC for over 20 years, died suddenly at home last night, the network reports.

Haines, 65, joined CNBC in 1989 and became the network’s first Squawk Box host in 1995. Ten years later, Haines began hosting spin-off Squawk on the Street with Erin Burnett. The anchor was know for his slightly “ruffled” appearance and demeanor, coupled with a strong knowledge of financial markets. In describing his work, many recalled his straightforward, calm reporting during the events of September 11th, and indicated it was one of the most memorable points of his career.

CNBC released the following statement to their employees:

“With his searing wit, profound insight and piercing interview style, he was a constant and trusted presence in business news for more than 20 years,” Hoffman said in a statement to CNBC employees. “From the dotcom bubble to the tragic events of 9/11 to the depths of the financial crisis, Mark was always the unflappable pro.

“Mark loved CNBC and we loved him back. He will be deeply missed.”

Burnett, who recently left CNBC to start up a show on CNN, spoke of her former co-worker on news of his death:

“Mark’s legacy is that he didn’t tolerate any B.S. from anyone… He wanted to tell the story — and that’s why so many viewers trusted him. He would always ask the question that nobody else would ask. He was fearless.”

She recalled a man who was dedicated to his career, but put family first:

“He loved to do things for his kids,” she noted. “He was always on the Web looking for things his kids might like.”

Haines’s daughter liked to be on stage, Burnett recalled, “and Mark went to all of her shows. He worked with her a lot on her DVD.”

After trading opened this morning, Haines’ death was reported on CNBC. During the report, there was “silence on the trading floor” and a retrospective of the anchor’s life and career aired. A program on Haines’ life and career is set to run tonight on the financial network at 7PM.

No cause of death has been disclosed. Haines is survived by his wife, Cindy, and a son and daughter.