Gillen Broadcasting Owner/General Manager Douglas Gillen has passed away at the age of 72.
Gillen has owned CHR “Kiss 105.3” WYKS and Hip Hop/R&B “98.9 Jamz” 1390 WAJD/98.9 W255CV Gainesville FL since 1987. Doug Gillen has continuously served as General Manager and acquired the stations following his father’s death in 2002.
The Gillen family acquired the stations in 1987 with Doug Gillen serving as General Manager for the past 40 years.
The company released the following statement:
With heavy hearts, we at Gillen Broadcasting, KISS 105.3, and 98.9 JAMZ are mourning the loss of our founder and owner, Douglas J. Gillen.
For nearly 40 years, Doug was quietly a pillar of our local community, preferring to stand behind the spotlight of his DJs. A philanthropist at heart who freely gave to raise awareness for local charities. Yet no one could have done more to support local businesses in our area and take such joy in seeing them thrive.
He created careers for so many, some who have remained local to Gainesville and others who soared to unimaginable heights worldwide. More than just a boss, he was a beloved mentor, friend, and father figure.
He left a legacy that will continue through us. We will continue to operate KISS 105.3 and 98.9 JAMZ the way he would have wanted, the way he taught us.