Gator 99.5 Radio DJ ‘Buddy Russ’ Passes Away From Cancer

Russ Conrad passed away today surrounded by family.

Russ was the afternoon host on Gator 99.5. His energy and quick wit made him a listener favorite here in SWLA on their drive home from work.

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Russ never met a stranger, and he was the kind of guy that could light up any room no matter what was going on. His laugh was infectious, and he had impeccable timing for the perfect placed joke and occasional zinger.

Radio was his passion since he was a small child. Before becoming a Radio DJ, Russ worked as the entertainment director at a local casino, an event Emcee, and a mobile DJ at many SWLA events.

Russ passed away earlier today around 2:30pm surrounded by his loved ones.

Buddy Russ will be missed, but he taught us that there's always time for a joke, he taught us how to serve our community selflessly, and must importantly how to live life to the fullest.

Here are some great memories that Russ left us with: