Ronnie Lane, TKras, & Zac Blobner Remember Steve "The Big Dog" Duemig
By Zac Blobner
Tampa, FL (May 16th, 2019)
Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio WDAE is mourning the loss today of WDAE sports radio icon Steve “The Big Dog” Duemig who passed away this morning. Duemig was a Tampa Bay radio staple for nearly three decades at WFNS from 1991-1996, and began his career with WDAE in 1996 through his final show in February of 2018. Steve also served time as the Tampa Bay Lightning’s color analyst for two seasons, hosted a weekly call-in program on nationally-syndicated Fox Sports Radio and also co-hosted a program on The Golf Channel. Before his time in radio, Steve spent 13 years as a professional golfer with the PGA of America.
WDAE and IHeartMedia Tampa Bay would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to the friends and family of “The Big Dog” Steve Duemig.
STATEMENTS FROM FAMILY & COLLEAGUES :
Jennifer Duemig (Wife)
“Our beloved Steve Duemig “The Big Dog” went to heaven peacefully today. The entire Duemig family thanks you all for all your prayers, love and support.”
John Mamola (WDAE Program Director)
“We mourn the loss of an icon in not only Tampa Bay radio, but the entire format of sports radio. ‘The Big Dog’ was an intelligent, brash, entertaining brand of sports talk that spawned a large following and sparked the minds of many looking to follow in his footsteps. God bless you Steve! Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family of Steve Duemig.”
Pat Donovan (WDAE Host)
“The WDAE family lost another giant when we lost Steve Duemig. We can only hope he’s listening in on us with Chris Thomas behind the pearly gates.”
Aaron Jacobson (WDAE Host)
“Steve will always be remembered as a sports media giant in Tampa Bay. He had a major influence on my career, one that I will always carry with me. He will be greatly missed”
Ronnie Lane (WDAE Host)
“He will always be a legend in this town. Back when I was doing music, I always made sure if something big happened in Tampa Bay sports , I would automatically check out to see what the Big Dog’s response would be.”
Tom Krasniqi (WDAE Host)
“I am absolutely stunned and saddened at this news. I looked up to the guy when I came in town 7 years ago. He was a friend. I am very sad.”
Ron Diaz (WDAE Host)
“God bless his soul. We’ll all miss him. He can look down upon us now and be at peace.”
Ian Beckles (WDAE Host)
“I’ve always admired Steve’s grit, enthusiasm, and passion for sports. His energy will be greatly misses. R.I.P. Steve”
Jay Recher (WDAE Producer / Host)
“Steve was such a no-nonsense hard ass and I loved it. I’ll always remember how happy he was when people would come up to him and tell him how much they enjoyed our “Bark or Bite” segment. We’ll miss you Big Dog.”
Steve Carney (WDAE Reporter/Host)
Fans and listeners may remember the gruff persona that "The Big Dog" could have when he was on the air, but I will remember the hours off the air with Steve Duemig that were filled with laughter, great advice, and encouragement in this crazy business that we call sports radio. Emily and I send our deepest condolences to Steve's family, friends and everyone who felt his influence throughout the Tampa Bay region and beyond.
Zac Blobner (WDAE Producer / Host)
“The Big Dog is the reason I decided to chase my radio dreams. He’s the sole reason why I chose to come to WDAE. This is a really sad day for the Tampa Bay community, and radio across the country.”