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John O’ Leary. There was no equal.
No words can fully express how much John has meant to Detroit radio, he was loved by his fans and admirably respected by his peers. The name would become as synonymous as WABX.
For the name itself would come to be a special radio brand. To a (X99) generation from long ago, he left an indelible broadcasting imprint that will be remembered always. And never having heard on Detroit radio ever since.
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WABX Aces Chuck Santoni, Jerry Lubin, John O’Leary, Karen Savelly.
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In paying homage to his dear friend, another Detroit radio legend, Jim Harper beautifully worded John’s passing this morning. We share his heart-felt sentiments, here, today —
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Detroit Radio has given up another Legend, to that big station in Heaven.
John O’Leary, one of the original WABX Air Aces, and longtime Detroit DJ has passed away.
The only thing John loved more than being on The Radio was connecting with Detroit listeners like you. He played Rock tunes for many years on a variety of stations, most recently WCSX. He had tremendous talent and was one of the nicest guys I ever worked with.
You won’t find anyone in our business with a bad thing to say about him…he truly was one of the last Peace, Love and Rock Roll DJs around.
We would talk from time to time over the past couple of years. He was always thinking of others and was crushed when his Friend and mentor, WABX ace-legend Jerry Lubin passed away not too long ago.
Here’s an example of the kind of message I would get from John:
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“Thinking about you, Jim. I hope you and yours are healthy and I’m telling you man every time I post that picture the comments goes off the chart! You left your mark with tons of people and I guess after we’re gone that’s all we can hope for!
Stay healthy and all the best to you and yours.”
— John
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You certainly left YOUR mark, Johnny.
I will try for the rest of my Life to be as kind as you were.
Rest in Peace.
Love you, Man.
Jim Harper (Facebook; November 22, 2021)
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‘Godspeed, John O’ Leary. Take up your wings and soar high’
Rock In Peace Johnny O’Leary, fly high to the greatest Rock Radio station in the skies!
John you were truly one of a kind.
I never met you but you helped me through some pretty hard times while in my 20’s. Thank you. I think I may be one of many who you helped. Peace with you. I will miss you.
Lynne
Dear John, there was nothing like sitting on the front porch with a hand held radio listening to the X, Thank you. For me it was you and Russ Gibb that stood out and made you listen a little closer to what was going on in Detroit. I heard about the Grande from you guys and had to go. Got in somehow at 15 and saw the MC5 and felt the energy that was Detroit then, awesome! Thanks and peace to you John O’Leary
Another mentor to myself and many others and a true original !