Passing of Wayne Yaffee

Jeremy Levy with some sad news to report. Wayne Yaffee who was with EZ 1430 and intercom and KNUS for years and years has passed away after a long battle with cancer. Wayne was a legend in the radio business. He was a talented musician, a gifted radio guy with a great sense of humor, and always a gentleman. Last year, Wayne earned the Best Scheduled Newscast award from the Colorado Broadcasters Association representing the 710 KNUS News Department. His radio career included stops in Grand Junction and at stations here in Denver including KIMN, KOA, KEZW, KALC, KOSI, KQMT, and here at 710 KNUS. He served as a Disc Jockey, Program Director, Production Director, and Newsman. He did it all with excellence! Before I started listening to Wayne he was with KOA radio. The first time I remember hearing Wayne Yaffee’s voice was when he was with EZ 1430 KEZW. He was doing introductions for the different shows on the weekends. I remember his introduction for the Mr. fix-it show by heart. “it’s time for Mr. fix-it Paul Macgregor on 1430 KEZW. If you have a problem around the house that needs attention we have people to help with all your abilities and now Mr. fix-it. Also when he was with 1430 he also filled in once on the Warren Byrne Restaurant show while Warren took a vacation to Germany. Wayne talked with Mr. Fix-it Paul Macgregor on his show before he did the Warren Byrne Restaurant show Paul asked him “Are you a gourmet or a gourmand?” Wayne said “I wouldn’t know the difference..” Paul explained to him that a gourmand likes everything.” I had never heard that word before. Wayne did the Warren Byrne restaurant show similar to the way Mike Boyle hosts his show. On this particular show a couple of the callers tried to stump Wayne with questions. Wayne explained that Warren had a computer with him with all of the restaurant names and their phone numbers and all of their information. Wayne had to have all of the listeners help to get through the show. This was also where I learned about the phrase Elvis has left the building. Wayne said this in the second hour of the show referring to Warren Byrne not being there. Wayne was on KEZW until 2012 or 2013. He took a little time off to spend more time with his family. In 2014 or 2015 I heard him doing news for 710 KNUS during the mid-days. The thing I will remember about Wayne was his soft and calming voice. It always sounded like he had a smile in his voice. I would have loved to interview him for my blog. I asked him once but he declined my offer. I will miss Wayne and his wonderful radio work that he did for both intercom radio and 710 KNUS.