In Loving Memory of Matt O’Neill: A Voice That Echoed Through Calgary’s Heart
It is with the heaviest of hearts that I share the news of the passing of my longtime radio partner, Matt O’Neill. Words fall short in capturing the depth of this loss—not just for me personally, but for all those who came to know and love Matt through the comforting frequency of JACK FM and beyond. His passing leaves a void in the world of broadcasting, in the lives of those who loved him, and in the hearts of thousands of Calgarians who welcomed his voice into their mornings, commutes, and everyday lives.
Matt O’Neill was more than just a broadcaster. He was a storyteller, a quick-witted conversationalist, a compassionate friend, and, above all, a devoted father. He brought an authenticity to the airwaves that can’t be taught. Whether it was through infectious laughter, thoughtful musings, or the occasional comedic jab, Matt had a way of making people feel like they were right there in the studio with him—like they belonged to something familiar, something human.
Our time together on JACK FM was filled with moments that I’ll forever hold dear—those early-morning banters, the inside jokes that no one but us truly understood, the live interviews that went hilariously sideways, and the moments of sincere reflection that revealed Matt’s depth and kindness. He wasn’t afraid to be vulnerable on-air, and that honesty resonated deeply with our audience. He helped Calgarians laugh when they needed a break from the world. He gave them pause to think when life got overwhelming. And sometimes, he even helped them cry—because he knew radio wasn’t just about sound, it was about connection.
Off the air, Matt was every bit as remarkable. He was fiercely loyal, generous to a fault, and endlessly supportive. He loved his children with a passion that radiated from everything he did. He often spoke of them during our breaks—not for show, but because they were truly the center of his universe. His eyes would light up when he talked about being a dad, and his pride in their achievements and spirit was unmatched.
Calgary has lost a great one. The kind of broadcaster who didn’t just fill the silence, but gave it meaning. The kind of friend who didn’t just ask how you were, but listened—really listened—to the answer. The kind of human being who used his talents not to stand above others, but to lift them up.
To those who tuned in to hear him, thank you for letting Matt into your lives. I know many of you felt like you knew him personally—and that’s because, in many ways, you did. He was as real behind the mic as he was in person. That’s what made him special.
To his family—my deepest condolences. Your loss is immeasurable, and I hope you find some small comfort in knowing how many lives Matt touched, how many mornings he made brighter, and how many hearts he made fuller.
Matt, thank you. For every laugh, every quiet pause, every perfectly timed joke, and every word that helped someone through a tough day. You were one of a kind. Your voice may be silent now, but its echoes will live on in the memories, airwaves, and hearts of all who knew and loved you.
Rest easy, my friend. You made the world a better place—one broadcast at a time.