Gary Deal, 52, Original Real Deal Host, Dies - Tuesday, 11/27/07

Gary R. Dieleman, nom de radio Gary Deal, passed away from a heart attack on Friday, November 23.

Gary was the original host of the Real Deal. Mike Lytle, the current host, tells the story of tuning into KKFI by accident one night and hearing the great music that was playing on Gary's show. He called the station and Gary invited Mike Lytlte to come down and visit the station.

Mike was astonished by the invitation and came down to meet Gary.

They became good friends and, eventually, Mike took over the show. Gary was a monthly guest host with Mike Lytle on the Real Deal.

Gary loved music and had a great knowledge of popular music, finding obscure gems to include on his playlist.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.