The information media in British Columbia is in mourning within the wake of the passing of Dianne Newman, a trusted voice on native radio airwaves for greater than 20 years.
Newman died on April 1 at Vancouver Common Hospital. She was 69.
No official reason behind dying was supplied.
Newman’s obituary describes her closing days as marked by braveness and beauty.
After receiving a speedy prognosis of a terminal situation, she made the choice to cross away peacefully reasonably than delay what her household referred to as a “hopeless situation.”
The veteran journalist was identified for her calm presence and clear, no-nonsense supply, throughout practically 20 years with CKWX, together with 15 years as a distinguished voice on the morning and noon broadcasts of 1130 NewsRadio — previously often known as News1130.
She helped launch the station’s all-news format in 1996, rapidly changing into a well-known title to listeners throughout British Columbia.
Earlier than her rise in Vancouver media, Newman started her profession at Mountain FM, overlaying the Squamish and Whistler area.
She later joined 1040 KICKS in Vancouver, persevering with to hone her craft as a broadcaster.
Her work was outlined by mental rigor, heat and an unflinching dedication to clear, unbiased reporting — qualities that endeared her to each colleagues and the general public.
“She was a shining light and a mentor,” one former colleague stated.
“Serious, talented, and loved what she did.”
Exterior the studio, Newman’s voice reached even additional.
For the previous 13 years, she labored as a narrator for Descriptive Video Works, offering detailed, accessible descriptions of flicks and tv reveals for individuals with visible impairments.
Her colleagues praised her clear articulation and talent to deliver tales to life with out distracting from the content material.
In accordance with her household, she was a gifted musician who carried out with the group Groove Remedy, typically bringing pleasure to seniors and veterans round Vancouver.
She was additionally identified for her hospitality, typically welcoming family and friends with the scent of do-it-yourself bread, hearty meals and hand-crafted preserves.
Born on January 11, 1956, in Chilliwack, B.C., Newman was the youngest of seven youngsters within the Newman household.
She remained deeply related to her roots and frolicked residing and dealing in numerous Canadian cities, together with Toronto and Squamish, earlier than settling in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighborhood along with her longtime associate, Brad Copeland.
The couple shared greater than 30 years of affection, laughter, and, as her household fondly recalled, “dancing in the kitchen.”
She is survived by her associate Brad Copeland, 5 siblings, and a big prolonged household of nieces, nephews, and pals.
She is predeceased by her dad and mom, Henry and Marion Newman, her sister Bettylou, her brother Ed, nephew Michael, and brother-in-law Don.
A celebration of Dianne Newman’s life can be held on June 1 at 1 p.m. on the Royal Canadian Legion Department 142 in Vancouver’s West Level Gray neighborhood.
