Canadian radio DJ Iron Mike Bensson, who made a name for himself in Southern Ontario on the St. Catharines-based rock radio station 97.7 HTZ FM, passed away on November 7th following a long battle with cancer.

On November 15th the station aired a tribute to Bensson, a portion of which can be heard below:

HTZ FM program director Paul Morris posted the following tribute to Bensson via Facebook:

"It's been a long day full of an outpouring of emotion, love, support, condolences and reminiscing by listeners, HTZ alumni, former collegues and radio and music industry friends for Iron Mike Bensson. He deserved more than the six hour show we dedicated to his memoy but I'm so glad that everyone had a chance to share some stories and their experiences with Iron Mike.

The flow of Facebook posts, tweets, txt messages, emails, phone calls and visits have been overwhelming - befitting of a selfless man who gave so much of himself to others. He had a king-size heart to go along with that king-size personality. He had a habit of going out of his way to meet you with a warm smile and spending time to get to know you, if only for a little bit. We're all better because of him. I worked in his shadow for 15 years. My heart is broken today. I miss him so much. A.M.F. Iron Mike.

While this day went on, my wife and kids were listening to our show, texting me with 'I love you's'. It all came home to me today as it so often does in moments like this. Life is fleeting. If you do anything today hug, your family and friends a little closer and tell them that you love them!"

Bensson's passing hits home for several of us on the BraveWords staff, and many musicians in Southern Ontario. Watch for stories and anecdotes to be shared in the coming days.

In the meantime, go to the Friends Of Iron Mike Bensson Facebook page that has been set up here.