Milwaukee Radio Alliance Alternative “FM 102.1” WLUM Milwaukee has announced the passing of Justin ‘Ian McCain’ Cooper at the age of 54 following a brief illness.

McCain has been APD and afternoon host at WLUM since 2011, while also serving as Digital Program Director for their cluster.

VP/Programming and Operations Michelle Rutkowski said, “Ian’s passing has created a massive void in our hallways and our hearts. His spirit, his love of music, his sheer volume, and his wickedly funny wit have left an indelible mark on the MRA, our partners, and our listeners. It’s been our absolute privilege to have called him our co-worker and, more importantly, our friend for the last 13 years.”

A native of Omaha, he previously held roles at WKQX and AOL Music in Chicago, KJMY/KSOY and KJQN Salt Lake City, KSLI Lincoln NE, KMYZ Tulsa, KNRX Kansas City, KJDE Omaha, and Saga Des Moines.

A spokesperson for the family said, “We want to thank all of the people who knew and cared for Justin. Milwaukee welcomed him in with open arms and he returned that embrace with all of his heart. We so appreciate all of the love and support the City has always given him, and now to us in this heartbreaking time.”