Cumulus Media has sent along this information on KCMO’s Dennis Rooney. We reprint it in its entirety.
Cumulus Media-Kansas City is sad to confirm that friend, teammate and legendary Kansas City broadcaster, KCMO Morning News Anchor Dennis Rooney passed away today after a two-year battle with cancer. Dennis was previously news director and anchor for Union Broadcasting in Kansas City, and prior to that, was with Viacom as news and public affairs director for KBEQ in Kansas City, after serving as morning host, news for WKRQ in Cincinnati. Dennis was a graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City. While in college, he worked 40–50 hours a week driving a truck while attending classes.
Donna Baker, Midwest Regional vice president, Cumulus Media, said: “For nearly twenty years, thousands of KC radio listeners have listened to and loved Dennis Rooney. His brilliant writing and trusted voice as news anchor, combined with his signature quick wit made him a legendary on-air personality beloved by listeners and team members alike. Our deepest condolences to his family. Dennis will be greatly missed but never forgotten.”
In a note to Cumulus Media-Kansas City staff today, Lance Tidwell, operations manager for Cumulus Media-Kansas City said: “The amazing thing about Dennis Rooney is that so many people, listeners alike, didn’t realize that Dennis had been battling cancer for years. He came in before the sun came up and did his job flawlessly like the consummate professional he was, day after day after day and never complained. Laughing and carrying on with Rob and Jared through the difficult treatments right up to the day he no longer could. Dennis showed unbelievable courage and strength through a fight for his life and was an inspiration to all of us who worked with him.”
We have no information at this time on memorial services for Dennis, but will let you know when those details are available. Memorial donations may be made in Dennis’ name to Turner House Children’s Clinic.