CLEVELAND — Many had seen the news coming for some time, but it didn't make it any less heartbreaking.
Cleveland rock and roll legend Michael Stanley died Friday at the age of 72 following a months-long battle with lung cancer. The Rocky River High School and Hiram College alum made a name for himself locally and nationally as the frontman for the Michael Stanley Band, and later hosted the afternoon drive slot on 98.5 WNCX for more than three decades.
Those of a certain age in Northeast Ohio likely saw MSB play live at least once, and probably several times more than that. Beyond his musical and radio talents, he will be remembered as a kind and generous man who was "a loving father, brother, husband, [and] a loyal friend."
Stanley even wrote a letter to his fans in the days before his death, saying he was "off to catch up with that big club tour in the sky" and thanking all those close to him "for being a part of my musical journey."
Reaction to Stanley's passing was virtually instantanious, with celebrities, organizations, and 3News viewers sharing their favorite memories of his iconic life and career.