(PCM) It has just been revealed that iconic radio personality Casey Kasem has passed away today at the age of 82. Kasem’s had been in ailing health for quite some time and had been hospitalized in Washington State for the past two weeks. Kasem was diagnosed with Lewy body disease, the most common type of progressive dementia after Alzheimer’s. According to a family member, Kasem’s immediate cause of death was from sepsis caused by an ulcerated bedsore. There will be no autopsy planned as Kasem died in the hospital under doctors care.
The news of Kasem’s death was released via a post made to Facebook from his daughter Kerri Kasem and later confirmed by his agent Don Pitts. According to Pitts, a memorial service will be held this Friday in honor of Kasem.
The following statement was released by Kasem’s representative which said ” Early this Father’s Day morning, our dad Casey Kasem passed away surrounded by family and friends,” Kasem’s children — Kerri, Mike and Julie. Even though we know he is in a better place and no longer suffering, we are heartbroken … The world will miss Casey Kasem, an incredible talent and humanitarian; we will miss our Dad.”
Kasem and his family recently made headline’s after quite a nasty court battle between Kasem’s oldest children and his wife Jean over control of Kasem’s medical decisions and the right for them to even be allowed visitation with their father. Recently, Kasem’s daughter Kerri was granted temporary power of attorney over her father after Jean removed Kasem from a nursing home and moved him to Washington State. Kasem was hospitalized after a fight between Kerri and Jean during which Jean threw raw meat at Kerri.
Kasem was the beloved host of “American Top 40″ the syndicated radio show, which counted down the 40 most popular songs in the United States based on Billboard magazine’s Hot 100 music chart. Kasem made for a wonderful host as his mannerisms were always upbeat and friendly and his demeanor incredibly warm.
Our sincere condolences go out to Kasem’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
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