A beloved radio host in Prince George has lost a lengthy battle with lung cancer.
Mike Benny tragically passed away this week, the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group announced in an article this morning (Feb. 12) on CKPGToday.ca.
The broadcaster was initially diagnosed in fall 2019 when he went off-air to begin treatment.
He was on the local airwaves for 35 years, most of which were spent with 101.3 The River in the morning slot.
In the article by 99.3 The Drive's Doug Jones, he says Benny provided a major impact on the community, inspiring generations who grew up listening to his good humour and dad jokes.
"I don’t have to tell you how good Mike Benny was on the air. You’ve heard him," he wrote.
"Mike was a mentor for many young broadcasters that came through the door. If you wanted advice for anything radio or anything in life, you went to Mike. With his insight and big picture view of our little world he’d really listen to you and tell you what he thought. It was always great advice. He truly is a great guy."
Jones goes on to say, in lieu of flowers, the Benny family is asking anyone who's willing to donate to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Since the announcement, the Prince George community and beyond has poured in condolences, tributes and fond memories of Benny.
Benny leaves behind his wife and four children.
PrinceGeorgeMatters sends its thoughts and prayers to the Benny family, our friends with the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group and the many listeners he impacted over his memorable career.
Incredibly sad to learn of the passing of Mike Benny. Mike was my first morning show co-host at @1013theriver. It’s rare to find a co-host you really click with and he made it so easy. Many days we laughed until we cried. My heart is with his family and extended radio family. pic.twitter.com/IXNhtDGzoY
— Lindsay Rae (@lindsayrae105) February 12, 2021
Got to town and quickly realized Benny was completely in a class of his own talent wise. The goal was to be in the community and connecting with people even half as much as him. An amazing, friendly, positive guy. Honour to call him a coworker and friend. Rest easy, Mike. https://t.co/y5A5hblPqY
— Rich Abney (@RichAbney) February 12, 2021
This is so very sad. He was not diagnosed long ago. Mike was a great man, broadcaster, father, and friend. Rest easy, my good friend. https://t.co/THmOMLOU9R
— Todd C (@PGChamberCEO) February 12, 2021
Mike was a star on the radio and such a pleasant coworker for everyone at @ckpgnews, @1013theriver and @993TheDrive. #CityOfPG has lost a good one. https://t.co/8fiD4FEBUM
— Ryan Kessler (@RyanKGlobal) February 12, 2021
One of PG's great radio personalities, he will be missed. Condolences to his family and friends https://t.co/YINHN2V1uA
— Big Guy Lake Sports Club (@nativesportspg) February 12, 2021
I had the privilege of working with Mike for five years. A consummate pro and all-round nice guy. Worked hard but made it look easy (as the good ones often do).
— Alex Rawnsley (@alexrawnsley) February 12, 2021
A huge loss to the three stations in that building and the Prince George community overall.#CityOfPG https://t.co/yzQe9axDES
The Spruce Kings organization are incredibly saddened to hear the news about the passing of longtime radio host Mike Benny. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.♥️🔬 pic.twitter.com/Ha7DM0SY0E
— Prince George Spruce Kings (@SpruceKings) February 12, 2021
