John Rook Wild Card

I’m sorry to hear about the passing of radio legend John Rook this week. I met John when he was the owner/operator of KCDA-AM, above what is now Moose Lounge at 4th & Sherman. He had gold records and photos of himself and such stars as Kenny Rodgers all around the studio. He talked about his connections with past and present movie stars. But I was more interested in the niche he and Mr. Conservative Ron Rankin carved for themselves in local politics with his station. Rankin hosted a conservative commentary show for awhile on Rook’s station, shaking up local politics. Eventually, the station moved to Spokane and Rook retired to his gentleman’s ranch, south of Coeur d’Alene, in the Mica Hill area. I don’t think he was recognized locally for his past radio fame. But he was known nationally in the music industry. RIP, John. Here’s your Wild Card …