Beloved Radio DJ Mike Stevens Dies At 62, Mourned By Community

WALLINGFORD, CT — The Wallingford community and beyond is mourning the death of longtime radio personality Mike Stevens, who spent nearly 40 years in broadcasting in Connecticut.

Michael Joseph Zawacki, who was known by many as Mike Stevens, died Jan. 23 at the age of 62. He was a Lyman Hall graduate and also attended Quinnipiac College and the Connecticut School of Broadcasting.

“Upon graduating Mike became one of the most loved DJ's in the state of CT,” reads his obituary. “His voice would bring a smile to your face, soothe you, and make your day a better one. Mike worked in broadcasting for nearly 40 years. He started his radio career at WMMW in Meriden.

“In 1983 he went to WDRC in Hartford, where he wore many hats over the years including On Air personality, Music Director, Production Director, Promotions Director and Operations Manager. He worked mornings for many of those years waking up Connecticut with his upbeat personality and contagious laugh. Prior to his death he worked at WJMJ in Prospect. Mike was so well loved by his radio family. He cared deeply about his listeners and in turn his listeners loved him.”

Friends and former colleagues shared numerous tributes to Stevens on Facebook.

Marianne O’Hare, a former morning show co-host at WDRC-FM, shared a photo of Stevens and others and wrote, “On the backside of DJ Day - losing one of our finest compatriots is such a sad moment to process. Mike Stevens you made all of us better, and never wasted an opportunity to spread joy. Rest In Power my friend. Please let us know where we can find you on the angelic dial....”

Renee DiNino, currently an on-air radio/TV personality who works at The River 105.9, wrote “Rip Mike Stevens what a class act all the way. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing and sending deepest condolences to his family and friends. Just can’t believe it, always kind and cheerful and supportive. A great man for sure and a lasting legend on Connecticut airwaves.”

Ron Sedaille, of Fun Tower Radio, wrote “I'm heartbroken... One of the nicest guys in the business. A great friend, co-worker and all around great person to hang out with. We'll miss you Mike. Rest easy....”

Stevens was also known for his deep commitment to giving back to the community and was “instrumental in helping to raise millions of dollars for charitable organizations; most notably Connecticut Children's Medical Center, The Connecticut Street Rod Association, March of Dimes, American Red Cross, American Heart Association, Connecticut Breast Health Initiative, Toys for Tots, Wallingford Wishing Well, and The Pink Ladies Foundation,” according to his obituary.

See also: Obituary: Michael J. Zawacki 'Mike Stevens,' 62, Of Wallingford