Remembering Reno Morning Icon Panama
• Reno Media Group is saddened to report the passing of longtime Northern Nevada radio personality Panama Hoston, known to listeners simply as “Panama,” who died Sunday evening, Oct. 18 at Renown Medical Center due to complications from liver failure. He was 66.
Panama had hosted shows on Classic Hits KODS (103.7 River) and KBZZ (1270 The Buzz)/Reno since 2003, and since 2014 had been partnered with Mike Leach to create what became the top-rated Panama and Mike morning show on The River.
“Panama went about everything at 100 miles per hour and always gave it his all, until he had nothing left,” Leach said. “He was the kind of person they talk about when they say, ‘they broke the mold after they made him.’ He will be dearly missed.”
“A legendary voice in Northern Nevada and a proud inductee of the Nevada Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, Panama spent decades bringing joy, laughter and a familiar warmth to thousands of listeners each morning on the popular Panama & Mike morning show,” said Kara Brown, VP/GM of Reno Media Group. “Panama’s profound dedication to The River and our community made an immeasurable impact on all of us,” Brown added. “He was first and foremost, my friend. We are devastated by this huge loss, and our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with his family, his friends and the countless listeners whose mornings he brightened for so many years. He was a true champion for Northern Nevada.”
Reno Media Group President Tom Quinn, who had worked with Panama since he joined the company in 2002, said he had “an infectious love of life that poured through the microphone.” Quinn added, “Panama was guided by a deep drive to help others. He was the heart of our company and he didn’t just use his platform to entertain. He used it to uplift, support and bring our community closer together. His voice may be quiet now, but he leaves behind a community that is better and kinder because he was in it.”
Panama is survived by his wife, Veronica, daughter Vanessa, stepson Hector, two sons, Brandon and Dezmond, from a previous relationship, and four grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life honoring Panama will be held Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 5pm at The Flowing Tide in South Reno. All who loved Panama are welcome to attend.
The River will be devoting Wednesday’s morning show to a special tribute to Panama.
Listeners and friends who wish to share memories, condolences or stories of how Panama touched their lives are invited to email TheRiver1037@gmail.com or a record a voice message at 775-302-5096 that may be used on the air. Messages can also be left on The River’s Facebook page.
