The Buffalo Sabres announced that legendary play-by-play broadcaster Rick Jeanneret has passed away at age 81.
It is a sad time for NHL hockey broadcasting as legendary Buffalo Sabres play-by-play man Rick Jeanneret has passed. The Hall of Fame broadcaster passed away yesterday at the age of 81 of multiple organ failure. Jeanneret will be known for his dedication, passion, and perhaps mostly his timeless soundbites. He was a Sabres long-time television or radio personality.
The Personal Life of Hall of Fame Play-by-Play Broadcaster Rick Jeanneret
Jeanneret was born in St. Catharines, Ontario July 23, 1942, and raised in Terrace Bay, Ontario. He began calling the Buffalo Sabres in their second year of existence, in 1971. His career ended after the 2022 season, spanning 51 years. In addition, he holds the distinction as the long-tenured NHL play-by-play announcer for a single team in history. Furthermore, he was inducted in the Hall of Fame, alongside Sabre great Dale Hawerchuk in 2011. Also, he was awarded the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award in 2012. Jeanneret’s family will proudly carry on his legacy. Two of his sons, in particular, are involved in the hockey community. Mark Jeanneret works in Erie and previously was the play-by-play man for the Erie Otters of the OHL. Chris Jeanneret is a teacher of radio broadcasting at Niagara College in Welland, Ontario. He is also survived by his wife, Sandra, and stepdaughter Shelly.
Some of What He Will Be Remembered For
For the man himself, Rick Jeanneret, what hockey fans will remember the most is his iconic voice and calls. Perhaps some of his most legendary calls, many NHL fans, not just Sabre ones, will remember fondly. For example, they include the ‘May Day’ call, the ‘LaFontaine’ celebration, and a more recent one, being ‘These Guys are Scary Good.’ Moreover, he was a cancer survivor, having been diagnosed with throat cancer. He would have to miss part of the 2014-15 NHL broadcast schedule as a result. He came back strong and was able to finish up a fantastic career. Here is to a great broadcaster, and a better man, Rick Jeanneret.
Main Photo: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
