From the WDW Radio Archives…
On our last episode from the Archives, I purposefully chose to share one that included our friend Jim Korkis. As I shared on the last Archive show, as well as in the WDW Radio Clubhouse, Jim was hospitalized with Stage 4 cancer. I had been visiting him on a weekly basis, helping him with personal affairs, and maybe even sneaking in some of his favorite foods like Arby’s and dark chocolate. This week, it is with the heaviest of hearts that I share that our good friend Jim Korkis unexpectedly passed on July 28.
I shared in the Clubhouse details of my conversations with his brother, as well as some of my last visits with Jim just a week prior. I had a long conversation with his brother about Jim, his wishes, his gratitude, and love for all of you that gave him joy knowing that you appreciated him and his work.
I take great comfort knowing that he did not suffer, physically or mentally, and that he is now in a much better place.
I also want to thank YOU for not only listening to Jim’s voice over the years, but coming to meet him at some of our WDW Radio events, purchasing and sharing reviews about his more than 30 books on Disney history, and making him know that he was loved and appreciated. Jim never wanted or asked for much, and knowing he made people happy I think was his greatest reward. To anyone who helped with his GoFundMe to aid in his hospital and rehab bills, know that Jim was grateful to the point of tears. I think it was less about the money than it being a tangible measure of just how much he was loved.
I bought and set up a laptop for Jim while he was in the hospital, and I know he enjoyed being able to see the outpouring of love, comments, and stories. I like to think that even in his last days, it brought him great joy and comfort. Sometimes we don’t know how much we are loved. I want to believe that Jim finally did.
I ask that you remember and/or pray for Jim, smile knowing he is sharing a chili with Walt, and a meal with his departed parents that he loved so dearly.
And to everyone who knew you, either directly, through your books, and on the show… you ARE a Disney Legend. I loved and will miss you and our (long) talks, buddy. Rest in peace, my friend.
Share your thoughts, comments, memories, or condolences here in the Clubhouse
So once again this week I want to offer this episode as a tribute and honor to Jim, and timing being everything, connect it to my conversation with Hoop Dee Doo performer Rob Lott on Show 737.
Back on Show 376 in 2014, we looked at the history of the Hoop Dee Do Musical Revue, as we celebrated the 40th anniversary of the longest running show not just in Walt Disney World, but in all of American musical theater. We’ll look back at how the show got started, why it almost never came to be, and why it remains so fun and popular.
Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse, or call the voicemail at 407-900-9391 (WDW1) and share your story on the show.
But for now… sit back, relax, and enjoy this week’s episode from the Archives on the WDW Radio show.
You can listen to the original episode in it’s entirety at WDW Radio #376
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