Kansas City Mourns Rod Babcock After Beloved Radio Engineer Passes

A recent report that we think deserves mention . . .

Rod Babcock, the beloved former technical producer and on-air personality for Kansas City’s 98.1 KMBZ, passed away in his sleep on September 27, 2026, at the age of 55.

Babcock was widely recognized for his 12-year tenure (2007–2019) at Entercom/KMBZ, where he served as a technical producer and contributed on-air banter for popular local programs including the Dana & Parks show and the Jonathan Wier Show. After leaving KMBZ, he continued to collaborate with Wier as a podcaster on the Radio Free Wier Show With Rod.

Former co-hosts, colleagues, and listeners shared heartfelt tributes honoring his infectious laugh, unique humor, and kind nature. He is survived by his wife, Tabitha, and his son, Roman.

Here's a more personal note from Jon Weir . . .

"Got word this morning that Rod, my former co-host and one of the kindest, funniest, sweetest friends I’ve ever had, passed away in his sleep.

"I wish I’d seen him more before he passed. You always think there’s going to be more time. One more lunch, one more conversation, one more chance to catch up.

"I’m grateful that the last thing we said to each other was 'I love you.' "

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Weir Show Podcast On FB: Love you Rod, I'm so grateful for every moment we spent together.