R.I.P.: Kevin Russell, Morning Host, GM At St. Louis Area KBDZ

Kevin "Kevy Kev" Russell, a morning DJ and general manager at Classic Rock 93.1 KBDZ in Perryville, Missouri, passed away Thursday afternoon after contracting West Nile virus, the station announced on social media.

About five weeks ago, Russell developed a persistent fever and was hospitalized when his condition worsened. The station noted, "It became clear he was not going to recover." Russell was a beloved leader who built KBDZ from his basement, managing all technical aspects of the station. 

'Kevy Kev'

His death has deeply affected the small staff, with the station describing it as "one of the most brutal things we have ever been through."

Radio sportscaster Paul Brown paid tribute to Russell, recalling their early days in broadcasting together in the 1980s. This spring, Russell initiated high school football broadcasts on 101.7 FM in St. Charles, inviting Brown to do play-by-play. 

"After 45 years, we became colleagues again," Brown said. "Kevin worked tirelessly to prepare the station and reassured me when I doubted myself. He made it fun, like riding a bicycle."

The Missouri Department of Public Health and Senior Services reported that West Nile virus is spreading faster than usual in the state. As of October 4, the mosquito-borne virus has caused three deaths and 15 hospitalizations.