Beloved Detroit Newsradio Icon Mike Campbell Dies at 65, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Integrity, Compassion, and Unwavering Dedication

DETROIT, MI — The city of Detroit and the journalism community across Michigan are mourning the loss of one of their most respected voices. Mike Campbell, a veteran reporter and anchor for WWJ Newsradio 950, passed away on Sunday, June 8, 2025, just days after celebrating his 65th birthday. His passing marks the end of a remarkable era for local broadcasting — a career defined by honesty, humility, and heroism.

Campbell’s voice had become a familiar and trusted presence on Detroit’s airwaves for decades. Known for his calm and steady tone, his signature style blended professionalism with deep empathy for the people and stories he covered. Whether he was reporting live from a storm-ravaged neighborhood, tracking down breaking news on the highways, or covering city hall, Campbell’s work was marked by an unwavering dedication to truth and service to the public.

Throughout his nearly four decades at WWJ Newsradio 950, Mike Campbell earned a reputation not just as a journalist, but as a community cornerstone — a man who approached every story with heart and purpose. Colleagues recall his sharp wit, tireless work ethic, and the compassion he brought into every newsroom conversation and field report.

One of the most poignant examples of his character came in 2019 during a brutal Michigan snowstorm. An 89-year-old woman had gone missing from her home in Shelby Township. As emergency responders launched a desperate search, Campbell — out in the field doing what he did best — spotted her himself. Without hesitation, he welcomed the disoriented woman into the WWJ news vehicle, keeping her warm and calm until first responders could arrive. His quick thinking and selfless action likely saved her life.

“That was Mike,” said WWJ News Director Rob Davidek. “He didn’t just report the news. He lived it. He cared. And he had this incredible ability to connect with people — to truly see them. Whether it was a missing person, a grieving family, or a stranger on the street, Mike showed up.”

Born and raised in Michigan, Campbell joined WWJ in the late 1980s and quickly became a fixture on the radio dial for commuters across the Metro Detroit area. Over the years, he reported on some of the region’s biggest stories — from political scandals and union strikes to the COVID-19 pandemic and countless acts of everyday heroism. He was often the first voice listeners heard during breaking news or major weather events, calmly and clearly delivering vital information to keep the public safe and informed.

He was also deeply committed to mentoring young journalists, often reminding them that the story was never about them — it was about the people they served.

Mike Campbell’s passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and gratitude from across the city. Elected officials, fellow journalists, listeners, and members of the public have taken to social media and radio call-in lines to share memories of how Campbell’s reporting shaped their lives.

“Detroit has lost one of its most trusted voices,” said Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Mike Campbell represented the very best of local journalism — honest, tireless, and grounded in a love for the community.”

WWJ has announced it will honor Campbell’s legacy with a series of tribute broadcasts this week, highlighting some of his most memorable reports and interviews. A public memorial service is also being planned, with details to be announced by his family in the coming days.

He is survived by his wife, Linda, two sons, Mark and David, and three grandchildren, along with countless friends, colleagues, and listeners who considered him part of their daily lives.

As Detroit reflects on the life and legacy of Mike Campbell, one thing is clear: his voice may be gone from the airwaves, but his spirit — his integrity, kindness, and commitment to the truth — will echo through the city he loved for generations to come.

Rest in peace, Mike. Thank you for telling Detroit’s story — and for being part of it.