Rest in Peace Martin Streek

On a day when most North American media is focused on the memorial for Michael Jackson, word is making its way through Toronto that long-time radio personality Martin Streek has taken his own life. News of Streek's passing first began to spread from Toronto Mike's blog, initially without confirmation. Now the information has been sadly verified, including by Jason Barr on the Edge.ca.

According to MartinStreek.com, Streek joined CFNY the Edge 102.1 straight out of Erindale Secondary School as an intern before being properly hired to help with the CFNY Video Road Shows. Streek would then become well-known to many GTA radio listeners as the long-time host of the live-to-air broadcasts from The Phoenix and The Kingdom, and as the host of the Thursday 30, all on 102.1 The Edge. Streek was with the station for decades, before being let go in May of this year.

CFNY was always my station of choice as a teen and Streek's voice and style is an integral part of those memories. It was a disappointing loss for many when Streek was no longer on the air; now this week has brought a tragic loss for all who knew Streek as a personality or an individual.

• Watch Martin Streek host the first episode of Friday Night Live on YouTube.
• Visit the Martin Streek - RIP Group on Facebook.