Buddy Russ Day: Gator 99.5 Staff Reflect and Remember Lost Friend

Today marks three years since we held a benefit for our friend and colleague Buddy Russ Conrad. You see, Russ was diagnosed with cancer, which came as a shock to him and to all of us. Of course, the community came together to rally around him and his family and organize a fundraiser to support him during his fight.

Three years ago today, friends, listeners, and the community came together on February 5th at Wayne & Layne's in Sulphur for a day of fun to honor Russ and raise money. Thousands of people attended, and there were auctions and live music throughout the day.

Mike Soileau TSM

Public officials were also on hand and proclaimed that as of that day forward, February 5th will always be Buddy Russ Day. Three years later, and here we are, celebrating his day for him, as we lost him just two short months later after the benefit.

We here at Gator 99.5 are a tight-knit group. Sure, we are all co-workers, but here we are more like family. Not only did Russ crush the radio airwaves and was great at what he did, but he was also a dear friend to me, Scotty, and Chaz.

We thought we would share our thoughts as we remember our dear friend Russ Conrad, better known as Buddy Russ.

Juicy Media

From Scotty Schadler,

One of my favorite memories of Russ was how he treated others. When I got into radio, I told myself to never forget that. Talk to everyone who wants to talk, always be kind, and truly appreciate what makes us #1, the listeners.
There were times we’d go to lunch, and it would take us 45 minutes just to leave, because some little old lady wanted to talk his ear off. And Russ never rushed her.
The kindness Russ showed this world in the 40 years he was here is why his legacy will never die. I miss him every day, and I’m so thankful for the lessons he taught me.
-Scotty Schadler

Baton Rouge General Hospital

From Chaz,

Buddy Russ was a name, face, laugh, and personality we will never forget. He was truly bigger than life.
Like so many others, I spent countless afternoons listening to “Our Buddy Russ” bring us home after long days at work or school. In the spring of 2019, while commuting from McNeese State University and working part-time at KVVP in Leesville, Russ became a daily part of my drive home. The more I listened, the more I loved his show.

One day, I decided to message him on Facebook. That turned into an instant connection. We shared nearly identical stories of growing up loving radio and dreaming of being behind the mic. From that point on, Russ became more than just a voice on the radio.
Over the years, our friendship grew through working together, festivals, and checking in during life’s tough moments. Russ had a gift—he could always make you laugh and make the best out of any situation. He impacted everyone he met, and I’m grateful to say he was one of my greatest friends and mentors. -Chaston

Buddy Russ

Now, as for me, Mike Soileau, I could go on for days about Russ.

I first met him when he worked at L'Auberge as the entertainment manager. We played golf one day, and he found out what I did. He said he always wanted to be a radio DJ, and if I ever had a spot, would I consider him?
That day came a few years later when I was able to hire him, and he came aboard full-time, and it was the best decision I ever made. His passion for the job, radio, and the listeners of Southwest Louisiana was second to none. He loved Mardi Gras, his family, his friends, the ladies (LOL) and his beloved Buddy Rus Bus
He was such a creative guy and a great friend. Personally, we became like brothers, and I will always cherish our time together. I would tell you some stories for sure.

Scotty Schadler

We sure do miss Russ, and we all just wanted to reflect on how he impacted all our lives.