John "Bad Dog" McCormack

For the Memphians that follow my blog:

Yesterday we lost a local celebrity that touched so many lives and helped so many families with his kindness and his charity. I know that he worked for Clear Channel and it was their charity that put on the Ronald McDonald House radio-thon every year but we all associated it with Tim, Bev, and "Bad Dog". I was deeply saddened to hear that he had finally lost his battle with cancer yesterday afternoon. I feel as though I grew up listening to his intelligent responses and his infectious laugh. Both of my parents were fans and supporters of the radio-thon as well as his morning show, so I guess it spread to my brother and I. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family on this sad day. He did write a note to his fans which was posted on Rock 103's website last night. It was so touching and I wanted to share it with you all here. 

The announcement below was copied from Rock103.com.

John 'Bad Dog' McCormack: 1955-2011

From Ken Van Vranken: Bad Dog asked me a while ago to post this in the event of his passing..written by him for you: 

"I have gone to be with God and he is holding me tightly and I am surrounded by many of the Ronald McDonald House kids. Do not say you  have lost a friend. One is only lost when you don't know where they are.. you know where I am.

I thank each and every one of you for your support and prayers. I love all of you and that will never go away. When you are having a bad day, think of my laugh or a Twilight Phone or the time we met. None of us is guaranteed tomorrow, make every day great, be the spritual leader of your family. May peace be with you. Your friend, Bad Dog."

4:45pm 3/10/2011  We are saddened to tell you that Bad Dog passed away.  This is a very difficult time for the staff here and, of course, for John's family.  John was loved by so many.  We will pass along arrangements as John's family wishes.

3:00pm 3/10/2011  As some of you have by now heard, Bad Dog took a serious turn for the worse was admitted to Intensive Care this morning.  The situation is critical.  At this time, that is all that John's family would like said publicly