Saga Communications Classic Rock “106.9 The Fox” WAFX Suffolk has announced the passing of midday host Mike Arlo following a brief illness at the age of 77.
Arlo has hosted middays at Saga Communications Classic Rock “106.9 The Fox” WAFX Suffolk since 1996. His radio career began at sister Rock “FM 99” WNOR Norfolk in 1975 where he would host mornings from 1977 to 1981 and then slid into the midday slot until moving to WAFX in February 1996.
It is with heavy hearts that Hampton Roads Media Group, part of Saga Communications, announces the passing of legendary rock DJ Mike Arlo. He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on June 2 after a brief illness at the age of 77.
Arlo, as he was known both on and off the air, did his first air shift on FM99 WNOR in 1975 and took over the midday time slot, where he had made his mark, in 1981. In February of 1996, Arlo moved from FM99 to sister station Classic Rock 106.9 The Fox (WAFX), bringing “Arlo’s Electric Lunch” and legions of loyal fans with him.
In the 50+ years that Arlo had been on the air in Hampton Roads, he kept the public informed through countless hurricanes and storms and had been a part of many community-oriented events, including the annual 106.9 The Fox and FM99 Mayflower Marathon Food Drive, the annual FM99 Rock and Roll up Your Sleeve Blood Drive, and Polar Plunge for Special Olympics.
In 2025, in honor of his 50th anniversary, the Virginia Association of Broadcasters honored him with the inaugural Career Achievement Award, recognizing his extraordinary dedication, impact, and excellence in the broadcasting industry. This award celebrates individuals whose work has shaped the landscape of media and inspired generations to come. In addition, Arlo was awarded several VAB Awards throughout the years for Best Public Affairs Program for “Hampton Roads Focus,” Hampton Roads Media Group’s weekly Public Affairs program.Arlo never had a bad day. His happy-go-lucky personality permeated the airwaves every day, and that same attitude was truly who he was off the air. If you were the one he came across in the kitchen while refilling his coffee, you needed to be prepared for a long conversation about whatever was on his mind. It was common, especially before automation, to hear his PD say, “Get back in the studio, Arlo.” Arlo was a friend to everyone he met, and to those that knew him well, the kind of friend you could count on day or night.
General Manager, Carol Commander: “Today, we share in heavy hearts as we mourn the passing of not only a Hampton Roads radio legend, but a cherished friend and longtime member of our radio family. To say that Mike Arlo will be missed is truly an understatement. His impact on our industry, our wonderful listeners, and our community he served so passionately for over five decades is immeasurable. His loss leaves a void that simply cannot be filled.”
Director of Content, Mike Beck: “Knowing and working with Mike Arlo has been an honor. He was positive, humble, supportive, funny and genuine. A great friend who leaves an indelible legacy.”Arlo said many times that he never worked day in his life because he truly loved what he did. His passing leaves a gaping hole in the hearts of all who knew him, including his thousands of loyal listeners. Arlo is survived by his wife Lauren, daughters Monique and Brigette and their husbands, granddaughter Valerie, and fur children Keagan and Noel.
Original Report 5/28: Mike Arlo, a 50+ year veteran of Norfolk VA radio, has entered hospice care.
The 77 year-old Arlo has hosted middays at Saga Communications Classic Rock “106.9 The Fox” WAFX Suffolk since 1996. His radio career began at sister Rock “FM 99” WNOR Norfolk in 1975 where he would host mornings from 1977 to 1981 and then slid into the midday slot until moving to WAFX in February 1996.
A brief message on the station’s website and social media states, “Mike Arlo has been recovering at home from a medical issue. Unfortunately, he has been put into hospice. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers for him and his family.”
Kris Abrams
I met Mike in ’89 through Chris Corley. I was a kid doing overnight for a competitor but he was SO cool and welcoming. Lost touch over the years – he and his family are in my thoughts.