Former Grand Junction Radio Host Lance Manganello Passes Away
Grand Junction radio announcer and sports commentator Lance Manganello, 36, passed away last Friday, March 6, 2020.
You probably remember Lance "Mango" Manganello as the midday host on 99.9 KEKB during the years around 2010. During that same period, Mango announced sports and served as the voice of the Mesa State Mavericks on Sports Radio 1230 KEXO. For a period of time, Mango filled in as the morning host on 99.9 KEKB.
In addition to his skill as a sports commentator, Lance was a standout football player with the Mavs. He graduated Mesa State College with a degree in Mass Communications. Immediately after graduation, he came to work at Cumulus Broadcasting.
When it came to sportscasting, I can honestly say no one ever did it better than Mango. I'm not one for sports, but I would make a point to catch Mango's broadcasts. He had a unique way of conveying the action, complimented by a remarkable first-hand knowledge of the games.
One fond memory involves traveling with Lance to Memphis to tour St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Mango was passionate about working with St. Jude. One night he and I skipped out after curfew and visited B.B. King's place in the downtown area. This was no small ordeal. Let me tell you, Memphis can be a very cold place in late January, especially when it's the middle of the night and you're on foot.
I truly enjoyed working with Mango. It's hard to imagine Grand Junction ever encountering another sportscaster of his caliber. The next time you're at a sporting event, please raise a toast to Lance Manganello.
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