Happy Birthday Shark…….We Miss You

"Jim, let's get together and have a 7-UP and listen to some RUSH!" 

That's just one of the many random statements that would come out of the mouth of Gregg "The Shark" Scharnau, the former program director here at 94.1 KRNA.

As many of you know, our friend lost his battle with cancer on December 20, 2016. Today would have been his 53rd birthday, and that's the reason why I'm writing this blog.

Shark is the reason that I have this job today. I blame him for getting me into radio! You see, television has always been my gig, but thanks to Shark, I found that my true passion is on the airwaves right here at 94.1 KRNA.

Shark was more than my boss...he was one of my best friends. We got really close the last couple of years that he was alive. I still remember the day he sat me down at Cooper's Mill and told me the news.

"Jim, the cancer is back and it doesn't look good this time." He told me this over our steak and eggs that morning. The craziest part was that he said this all with a smile on his face. Who does that but Shark?

That's the kind of guy he was. He was always fun. Always making jokes, talking music and loving life. I wish I could meet him tomorrow for breakfast and a 7-UP. I have so many things to tell him!

Coincidentally, I am writing this in old office, which is now my office. I remember sitting in here with him blaring the music from time to time. He would literally crank the stereo up to 11 and start singing along with the music. I'm sure that Bob James, who was sitting next door in his office, was just shaking his head. But I'm sure he was also laughing at the same time, and had a smile on his face.

You see, nobody could ever really be mad at Shark. He was a great guy and was loved by every person that knew him. I wish I could be half the man that Shark was in his 50 years on this planet. He was one of the best, and he left us way too soon.

I bet right now he's up in heaven hanging out with former RUSH drummer Neal Peart. Shark was a huge fan of the band and if I had to guess, they're probably sharing a 7-UP right now, talking about music and drums. I sure hope that's true for my friend.

Back to his drink of choice, we talked about this a lot and he would say:

"Jim, most people only drink 7-UP when they're sick, but I love it and drink it all the time!" I always laughed when he said that. It's just one of the many things I'll remember about my pal, Gregg "The Shark" Scharnau.

I miss you old friend. Have a happy 53rd birthday!

I'll always love you, my bro.