A familiar community voice is now silent.

Bob Crouse, morning news anchor at EZ Rock Radio, died last Thursday morning after a long illness.

Crouse worked at the radio station for more than 30 years and was best known for his strong voice, excellence in reporting and love of the job, said Scott Campbell on the morning news Friday.

The Salmon Arm-based radio reporter’s newscasts were also carried on EZ Rock Revelstoke.

Campbell said some of Crouse’s best work as a journalist was during the 1998 Salmon Arm-Silver Creek wildfire when he was one of many who worked tirelessly during the emergency to inform local residents.

His efforts did not go unnoticed.

Peter Kilby, who had been brought into the emergency operations centre to take charge of the evacuation, offered high praise for Crouse’s efforts.

“I really have to compliment you Bob; there’s been no rhetoric,” said Kilby at the time. “You’ve reported very clearly and without a lot of emotion and what have you, and I think people have responded to that – they’re well-informed.”

In a touching salute to Crouse, the station ended the news with his voice and a familiar, “That’s news and weather – I’m Bob Crouse.”

There will be no service at his request.