Kalispell, Montana – In a sorrowful turn of events, Montana bids farewell to a radio legend, John Michaels (John Fleming), who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 62. Born on June 30, 1961, in Anaconda, Montana, John Michaels had an illustrious career in the radio broadcasting world, making a profound mark in Whitefish at KDBR.
John’s radio journey began in Libby at KLCB before joining Bee Broadcasting in Kalispell/Whitefish in 1980. Over the years, he became an integral part of the community, serving as the Program Director (PD) and host of “The Bear Morning Country Club” since the sign-on of KDBR in 1993. Additionally, he held roles as the PD and afternoon drive personality for “95.9 The Outlaw” and as the play-by-play announcer for the Whitefish High School Bulldogs for over 35 years.
Not only was John a staple in the radio industry, but he was also a devoted husband to Marie and a loving father to his three daughters – Ashlie, Mandie, and Lacie. Known for his passion for the Minnesota Vikings and the Oakland A’s, John Michaels left an indelible impact on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
On September 20, 2023, John Michaels’ sudden passing due to a heart attack sent shockwaves through the community, leaving a void that will be hard to fill. His family and friends took to social media to share their grief, remembering him as a compassionate, humble, and caring individual. Plans for his funeral and memorial are underway, as friends, colleagues, and listeners honor his legacy as a radio icon. John Michaels will forever remain in the hearts of many and will be deeply missed.
A GofundMe page is organised by Leah Lindsay for Memorial Fund having title “John Michaels Fleming Memorial Fund”. $17,340 raised till now with the target of $30k. It is stated on page:
“Very sadly, we lost a Flathead Valley Treasure, John Michael Fleming, also known as Magic John Michaels on 106.3 The Bear was a Flathead Valley Icon and True Legend. John went to be with His Lord on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. John was a Family Man if there ever was one; Oh, how he loved Marie, his Best Friend and Wife of 40 years – His 3 Beautiful Daughters, Ashlie & Treyson, Mandie & Chris, and Lacie – His Grandsons. Bennett and Parker – His 11 Brothers and Sisters – His Mom and Dad in Heaven. I am creating this page to raise funds for funeral expenses and to help John’s grieving Family, who lost the family breadwinner.
Aside from his Family, broadcasting was his passion, along with football and all things sports. The Minnesota Vikings, Montana State Bobcats and Whitefish Bulldogs were at the top of his list; however he loved ALL the teams in the Flathead Valley and State of Montana.
When it came to broadcasting, nobody did it better. John was the Voice of a Generation and was a gamechanger in Flathead Radio. His ability to connect and entertain his Beloved Audience was as magical as he was. He was the Voice of the Morning Commute on the Bear Morning Country Club for 40 years. John Michaels became family to his listeners and he loved everyone of them. His Fans couldn’t wait to wake up in the morning and turn on The Bear and listen to Johnny talking to his homie Mike Evans, or calling his childhood best friend, the rocket scientist, Mike Picket. Chug A Lugging at 7:40am every Friday morning was not to be missed! But now it will and it is. Flathead Valley Radio will never be the same.
John did play-by-play for the Whitefish Bulldogs Football and Basketball and was inducted into the Whitefish High School Hall of Fame.
He raised millions of dollars over his 40 year career at Bee Broadcasting for Toys for Tots, The WINGS Radiothon, St Jude’s Radiothon and so many non-profits and countless families in need. John was always there to help a friend or neighbor or listener in need.
John loved to golf with his best friend Scott, to swig an ice cold craft beer every once in a while and do a lot of front porch sittin’ with his bride Marie and his family. And most of all, John loved God. Please give what you can to help this wonderful family, they have all supported Magic John Michaels and this community in the most incredible ways for so many years.”
John Michaels’ Obituary
Montana and the radio industry mourn the loss of John Michael Fleming, a beloved figure who unexpectedly passed away on September 20, 2023, finding solace in the promise of heaven. Born on June 30, 1961, in Anaconda, Montana, to Raymond Patrick Fleming and Margaret Jean (Kerns), John was one of 12 children. He embarked on a life journey that left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
John’s passion for radio led him to pursue his dreams at KJJR, where he took his shot by recording a demo tape at the age of fourteen. Benny Bee Jr., just 14 at the time, saw his potential and welcomed him into the world of radio. The next 40 years saw John becoming an integral part of Bee Broadcasting, touching the hearts of the Flathead Valley as the voice of the Bear Morning Country Club. His true calling, however, was sports play-by-play, becoming known as The Voice of the Whitefish Bulldogs, broadcasting nearly every game, home and away.
In a beautiful twist of fate, Bee Broadcasting also introduced him to the love of his life, Marie. Their love story began and soon flourished into a beautiful marriage that spanned over 40 years. John’s proudest moments were as a father to his three daughters, Ashlie, Mandie, and Lacie. He was an exceptional dad, constantly there for them, whether it was recording cheerleading mix tapes, coaching basketball, or simply being their unwavering support. There was nothing John wouldn’t do for his girls.
John’s life was further enriched with the arrival of his grandsons, Bennett and Parker, whom he adored. As a grandpa, he excelled, cherishing every moment with them and sharing their joys. The sun rose and set on his boys in his eyes.
Front porch sittin’ and enjoying life’s simple pleasures with an IPA in hand, John was a familiar and welcoming face in the community. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Dede Lanz (Fleming). His legacy lives on through his wife, Marie, daughters Ashlie, Mandie, and Lacie, as well as his two grandkids, Bennett Michael Bordin and Parker Bordin, and his 10 siblings, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
John Michael Fleming’s life was a testament to the impact one can have on both their profession and their family. He will be remembered for his remarkable career in radio and, above all, for the love and devotion he showed to his family and community. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will forever live on.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
