Rick Jeanneret, the iconic hockey announcer who called Buffalo Sabres games for more than 50 years, passed away on a Thursday, as announced by the team. He was 81 years old.
A statement released by the Jeanneret family through the Sabres explained that the Hall of Fame play-by-play man died “after a two-year battle with multi-organ failures.”
Jeanneret joined the Sabres in 1971, only their second season in the NHL. He called games on the radio and, starting in 1995, on TV until 2022.
Sabres owner Terry Pegula shared, “Rick was truly a special and beloved man, known and listened to by all. His magic and command were remarkable.” Pegula expressed how fortunate he was to have known and heard him.
Jeanneret received various awards throughout his career, including the Hockey Hall of Fame’s Foster Hewitt Award in 2012.
Reflecting on growing up in Buffalo, Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams stated, “Rick Jeanneret wasn’t just the voice of the Sabres; he was the voice of our city. He helped me and many others love hockey.” Adams also praised Jeanneret’s humor and wit, emphasizing his impact beyond broadcasting.
Adams conveyed his sadness and offered condolences to Jeanneret’s wife, Sandra, and family, wishing him peace in his rest.
