Remembering Rick Jeanneret: The Voice of the Buffalo Sabres
The End of an Era
The world of hockey and sports broadcasting lost a giant this week. Rick Jeanneret, a name synonymous with the Buffalo Sabres for over half a century, passed away at 81. With a stellar 51-year broadcasting career, he wasn’t just a commentator but an institution. In 2012, the Hockey Hall of Fame recognized his invaluable contribution by honoring him with the Foster Hewitt Award.
According to the Sabres, Jeanneret’s family released a touching statement, detailing that loved ones surrounded him during his final moments after a prolonged fight with multi-organ failure. The heartfelt words from the family said it all: “He will be loved forever.”
A Voice That Defined Generations
Jeanneret, affectionately known to many as ‘RJ’, graced Sabres’ broadcasts since the franchise’s second season in 1971-72, either on radio or TV. This dedication saw him achieve the record for the longest play-by-play announcing career in NHL history.
Sabres owner, Terry Pegula, expressed his deep admiration, saying,
“Rick was indeed a very special and very loved man. How glad I am to have known him. How lucky were we all to have been around him and to have listened to him.”
It’s interesting to note that Jeanneret’s captivating radio broadcasts kindled Pegula’s love for the Sabres during the 1970s, especially those featuring the famed French Connection line.
Kevyn Adams, the Sabres’ GM, nostalgically reminisced, “Growing up in Buffalo, Rick Jeanneret was not just the voice of the Sabres. He was the voice of our city. He helped foster my love of hockey.”
Signature Calls and Memorable Moments
Jeanneret wasn’t just known for his regular commentary. He had a flair for crafting iconic calls that resonated with fans. Many would fondly recall his exclamation, “Top shelf, where mama hides the cookies,” when a Sabres player masterfully took a shot.
Among his many memorable calls, the exhilarating “May Day! May Day!” after Brad May’s goal in the 1993 playoffs stands out. Sabres fans also cherish moments like the “La-la-la-la-Fontaine!” whenever Pat LaFontaine scored in the 1990s and the goosebump-inducing “Now do you believe?” during the Sabres’ 2006 playoffs run.
Honors and Reflections
In a tribute to his unmatched contribution, the Sabres raised a banner with Jeanneret’s name to the arena rafters during his final season. The emotion was palpable in the stadium, with fans chanting his name in unison: “RJ! RJ! RJ!” During a poignant 15-minute ceremony, Jeanneret reflected,
“I stood down here 10 years ago upon my induction into the Sabres hall of Fame, and I remember saying that night, this is the only job I ever wanted. This is the only place I wanted to be. I meant every word on that particular night. And boy, do I mean it now.”
A Life Well Lived
Born in nearby St. Catharines, Ontario, Jeanneret spent most of his life in Niagara. His journey with the Sabres began on the radio on October 10, 1971, and he later transitioned to the team’s TV broadcasts in 1995.
Though his career was illustrious, life had its challenges for Jeanneret. In 2014, he faced a daunting diagnosis of throat cancer. Displaying resilience many admired, he only missed a few games during the 2014-15 season post-treatment. A couple of years later, in 2016, he had a pacemaker fitted owing to a slow pulse.
Legacy
Rick Jeanneret’s legacy is more than just the games he commentated on. It’s about the lives he touched, the moments he captured, and the passion he ignited in countless hockey fans. He was more than just the voice of the Sabres – he became the heartbeat of a city, a community, and a sport.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra. His children – Mark, Chris, and Shelly, and several grandchildren. Details regarding funeral arrangements remain undisclosed.
In remembering Rick Jeanneret, we don’t just recall a commentator. We celebrate a man who encapsulated the spirit of a game and became an enduring symbol of hockey’s rich tapestry.
