Long-time and much-adored Victoria radio host Dylan Willows has died of cancer, radio station The Zone at 91-3 announced Thursday.
Willows was on the airwaves for more than 20 years and was a proud proponent for local music, spending time as a director of The Zone’s Band of the Month program – which showcases local performers – as well as being a juror to music grant programs like the JUNOs, Peak Performance, Western Canadian Music Awards, and FACTOR.
Willows, 44, had his last show with the Morning Zone in February and was celebrated with a two-night concert at the Royal Theatre in March.
Countless fans and performers attended the shows, which raised money for his family.
In May, the British Columbia Association of Broadcasters also presented Willows and his radio partner, Jason Lamb, with the Broadcast Performers of the Year award, which is given to performers who demonstrate innovation, creativity, determination, involvement and excellence in their on-air performance.
The pair had worked together for 16 years.
“It is with immense sadness and sorrow that we announce the passing of Dylan Willows. He was surrounded by his beloved wife and immediate family,” reads a message from his family posted on The Zone website Thursday.
“Dylan’s final days were spent as any other, filled with laughter; love; music and the occasional tease.”
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The family asks that everyone respect their privacy at this time, and in lieu of flowers people can donate to The Zone’s Toy Drive, Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock; or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Association, “as these were charities that were near and dear to Dylan’s heart.”
“To keep Dylan’s love and passion for music alive, support your local talent by taking your loved ones to see a local artist and a Band of the Month.”
On social media, The Zone team said, “We miss him indescribably, and we know you do, too. The Zone, and this city, will never be the same.”
Anyone who wants to send a message remembering Willows can post it on The Zone Facebook page, or email [email protected]
With files from CHEK’s Laura Brougham and Harry Corro
WATCH: Concert for Dylan Willows fills up Victoria’s Royal Theatre
Adam Chan
