British Columbia’s broadcast community is mourning the loss of Dianne June Newman, a trusted voice on local radio for more than two decades, who died on April 1 at Vancouver General Hospital. She was 69.

Newman, whose calm presence and clear delivery made her a familiar name to listeners across the province, passed away with what her family described as “peace, dignity, and grace” after receiving a diagnosis of a terminal condition. Rather than prolonging what the family called a hopeless situation, she made the decision to pass away peacefully, according to her obituary.

For nearly 20 years, Newman was a fixture at CKWX in Vancouver, including 15 years as a prominent voice on the morning and midday broadcasts of 1130 NewsRadio — formerly known as News1130. She joined the station in 1996, helping launch its all-news format that would become a staple for commuters and news enthusiasts throughout British Columbia.

“She was a shining light and a mentor,” said one former colleague. “Serious, talented, and loved what she did.”

Newman’s journey in broadcasting began at Mountain FM, covering the Squamish and Whistler regions north of Vancouver. She later joined 1040 KICKS in Vancouver, where she continued developing the straightforward and informative delivery style that would become her trademark.

Former colleagues at News1130 remembered Newman as a consummate professional who meticulously prepared her newscasts, bringing intellectual rigor and an unwavering commitment to unbiased reporting to her work. Her approach to journalism earned her respect from both colleagues and listeners throughout her 19.5-year tenure with Rogers Broadcasting.

After leaving News1130 in 2011, Newman found a new way to use her distinctive voice. For the past 13 years, she worked as a narrator for Descriptive Video Works, providing detailed audio descriptions of movies and television shows for people with visual impairments. Her colleagues praised her clear articulation and ability to bring visual content to life without distracting from the original programming.

Born in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Newman maintained connections throughout the province while building her career. She lived and worked in various Canadian cities, including Toronto and Squamish, before settling in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighborhood with her longtime partner, Brad Copeland.

Outside the broadcasting booth, Newman pursued her passion for music as a talented performer with the group Groove Therapy. The band regularly entertained at senior centers, veterans’ homes, and the Point Grey Legion 142 in Kitsilano, bringing joy to audiences throughout Vancouver. Her musical partner Jessie joined her for these performances, which became a meaningful part of her life beyond broadcasting.

Newman was also known for her generous hospitality. Friends and family were often welcomed into her home with the aroma of freshly baked bread, hearty meals, and hand-crafted preserves. Her partner Brad spoke of how she enjoyed sharing her culinary talents almost as much as she enjoyed sharing news with her listeners.

Her insatiable curiosity extended beyond her professional life. Newman was an avid traveler who explored Canada extensively with Copeland, while also venturing to destinations in Australia, Asia, and Mexico. Her obituary noted that she approached travel with the same enthusiasm and attention to detail that characterized her broadcasting career.

The couple shared more than 30 years together, a partnership filled with what family members fondly remembered as love, laughter, and dancing in the kitchen. Copeland and Newman built a life centered around community, creativity, and connection.

Newman’s legacy in Canadian broadcasting extends beyond her time behind the microphone. In 1987, she received recognition from the BC Drama Association for her outstanding performance as “Pearl” in the one-act play “Patio” by Jack Heifner, demonstrating her talents extended to dramatic performance as well.

She is survived by her partner Brad Copeland, five siblings, and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and friends who will deeply miss her presence.

A celebration of Newman’s life will be held on June 1 at 1 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 142 in Vancouver’s West Point Grey neighborhood, where she often performed with her band. The venue holds special significance as a place where Newman shared her musical gifts with the community she loved.