John Carl LaBella

John Carl LaBella, 52, died Monday (March 4, 2002). A devoted husband and father, John also was a respected and admired radio personality. His deep passion for radio was evidenced by the energy, dedication and unshakable level of professionalism he brought to his craft. Born May 18, 1949, in New Britain, John graduated from the University of Hartford in 1972 where he also began his broadcasting career in 1968 at WWUH, the college radio station. After working at several stations in Connecticut including WHCN, John moved to Houston, TX in 1977 where he worked for KLOL. In 1978, he moved to Dallas, TX to work at KZEW, The Zoo, and became part of the legendary morning team of LaBella and Rody. Following working at KZEW, John fulfilled a life-long dream when he moved back to Connecticut to work at WTIC in Hartford. Drawn to Texas in 1992 by the opportunity to work at KZPS, John worked at The Arrow, KRRW, B-97.9 and spent the last several years doing the morning show on KMEO - Memories 96.7. John is survived by his beloved wife of eight years, Beth; and his adored 7-year-old daughter, Elise. He also is survived by his mother, Ruth LaBella of Middletown; his sister, Christine Sirigos of Portland; mother and father-in-law, Bea and Frank Brundrett of Kemp, TX; nephews, Justin, David and Stephen Short and George Sirigos; as well as numerous other loving relatives. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Louis LaBella; and his brother, Michael. A celebration of John's life will be held Saturday, March 9, 1 p.m. at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church, Inwood and Northwest Highway. The Rev. David Howeth and the Rev. Ben Marshall, officiating. The family will receive friends Friday, March 8, 6-7:30 p.m. at Sparkman-Hillcrest Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the LaBella Scholarship Fund, c/o Bank of Texas, 6701 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75205, the Environmental Defense Fund, or Operation Kindness in memory of John Carl LaBella.