OHS Telethon Article
Les Sarnoff, a Portland radio icon and a tireless friend of animals died April 17 after a yearlong battle with cancer. Sarnoff was known to thousands of OHS supporters as the on-air host of the annual OHS Telethon, where his humor, wit and love of animals won the hearts of countless television viewers beginning with the telethon’s first broadcast in 2000.
He was recognized throughout Portland as the voice of KINK-FM, one of the city’s most popular radio stations. His upbeat personality and expert knowledge of rock music made him a Portland favorite during the 22 years he served as KINK’s morning host. His broadcasts frequently included discussions of causes near to his heart, including OHS.
“Few people have done as much on a personal level for the welfare of animals as Les Sarnoff. He was sincere and true to the core in his love of pets and his concern for their protection and well being.” said OHS Executive Director Sharon Harmon. “Les was a dear friend personally and professionally and his passing is a giant loss for the animals.” said Harmon.
Sarnoff served on the OHS Board of Trustees from 1999-2004 and as a Community Ambassador from 2005 to his passing. As recently as October 2008, Sarnoff hosted the annual OHS Telethon, after being successfully treated for lung cancer that was first diagnosed in April of that year. Sarnoff was forced to take medical leave from KINK in December when doctors determined his cancer had reappeared. He died April 17, at Providence Cancer Center in Portland, Ore.
Remembrances in his honor can be made to the Oregon Humane Society, the Children’s Cancer Association, the Portland Rescue Mission, Radiant-A-Jesus Church (care of Freedom Foursquare Church, the Oregon Food Bank, and SMART.
