KINK FM's Les Sarnoff Passes Away Friday After Losing Battle With Cancer

Les Sarnoff was 60. He served as KINK FM's morning host for 22 years, and over that time became an extremely familiar voice on the air in Portland.

Les Sarnoff Courtesy: KINK FM

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Portland, Oregon said good bye to longtime local radio personality Les Sarnoff Friday evening.

KINK FM relayed the word that Les passed away at Providence Cancer Center in Portland, Oregon after a courageous and inspiring battle with cancer.

"There is perhaps no single person more closely associated with any radio station than Les is with KINK," said KINK.FM General Manager Dave McDonald.

"His professional contributions over his 30 year association with the station are inestimable. His style, creativity and attitude personified a great radio station, perhaps the most significant thread through KINK’s history. He has meant so much to so many with his positive energy, generous spirit, community commitment and his warm and open presence."

"Portland and the KINK Community have lost a great one."

KINK FM Program Director Dennis Constantine said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with Rita and all of Les’ many family and friends today."

Les Sarnoff was 60. He served as KINK FM's morning host for 22 years, and over that time became an extremely familiar voice on the air in Portland. His career with the radio statio began in 1974.

Les Sarnoff was born in Michigan, and he spent his teen years in Minneapolis. Portland became Les's home in the early 1970s after he came here to attend a theater program at the University of Portland.

Sadly his friends note, Les had been diagnosed with melanoma last April. He had surgery and returned to work, but tests in December indicated that the cancer had returned.

Les Sarnoff is survived by his wife, Rita.

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Les saved my life when I first moved to Oregon in 1964. My husband acepted a job in Salem and worked twelve hour days the first year. I had a new baby and the hundred year flood to adapt to on my own. Les was my nighttime buddy on "lights out". I was comforted and didn't feel so alone that first year. My husband was jealous I spent my time with Les. I can't be the only person who Les made welcome to Oregon. I have tried to do for new comers what Les did for me. I'm also an animal rights activist.

He'll be missed.

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