Rick Jeanneret, affectionately known as RJ, was an iconic figure in the world of hockey broadcasting. Over a career that spanned an impressive 51 years, Jeanneret became synonymous with the Buffalo Sabres. His voice resonated through arenas, captivating audiences and bringing the game to life. Sadly, on Thursday, at the age of 81, Jeanneret passed away after a two-year battle with multi-organ failure. His loss is deeply felt by the hockey community, but his legacy will be loved and cherished forever.
Jeanneret’s connection with the Sabres and the city of Buffalo was profound. He joined the Sabres broadcasts in the 1971-72 season and remained a constant presence until his retirement in 2022. This impressive longevity made him the longest-serving play-by-play announcer in NHL history. Jeanneret’s voice became the soundtrack of Sabres hockey, and his passion for the game was contagious.
Sabres owner Terry Pegula expressed his admiration for Jeanneret, saying, “Rick was indeed a very special and very loved man, to and by all who knew him and listened to him, his magic, and his command.” Pegula himself became a fan of the Sabres through Jeanneret’s broadcasts, which fueled his passion for the game and ultimately led to his ownership of the franchise. Jeanneret had a magical way of captivating his listeners, bringing every play to life with his unmistakable voice.
Jeanneret’s impact extended beyond the Sabres organization. Sabres General Manager Kevyn Adams shared his thoughts on the legendary announcer, saying, “Rick was an incredible man that was loved by all. His wit and humor were unmatched, and we are all lucky to have known him.” Jeanneret’s larger-than-life personality and unforgettable catchphrases endeared him to fans, players, and colleagues alike.
Throughout his career, Jeanneret created numerous iconic calls that will forever be etched in the memories of hockey fans. One of his most memorable moments was during the 1993 playoffs when Brad May scored the winning goal against the Boston Bruins. Jeanneret’s exclamation of “May Day! May Day!” perfectly captured the excitement and significance of the moment. It was a call that showcased his ability to encapsulate the emotion of the game.
Jeanneret’s repertoire of signature calls also included “La-la-la-la-Fontaine!” following goals by Pat LaFontaine in the 1990s. And who could forget the famous “Now do you believe?” call during the Sabres’ thrilling 2006 playoff run? Jeanneret’s ability to create these memorable phrases added to the magic of the game and made every goal feel like a momentous occasion.
A Legacy Honored
In recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the Sabres organization, Jeanneret was honored during his final season with a banner bearing his name raised to the rafters of the arena. He joined an exclusive group of 11 individuals to be recognized by the team, and only the third non-player to receive this honor. The emotional ceremony was a testament to the impact Jeanneret had on the organization and its fans.
During the ceremony, Jeanneret expressed his deep gratitude and love for the Sabres. He stated, “This is the only job I ever wanted. This is the only place I wanted to be… And boy, do I mean it now.” These heartfelt words demonstrated his lifelong passion for his craft and his unwavering dedication to the team and its fans.
Jeanneret’s love for hockey extended beyond his broadcasting career. He grew up in St. Catharines, Ontario, just a stone’s throw away from Buffalo, and spent much of his life in the Niagara region. He called his first Sabres game on the radio in 1971 and later joined the team’s TV broadcast in 1995. Jeanneret’s commitment to his craft was unwavering, even in the face of health challenges.
Over the years, Jeanneret had to navigate several health scares, including a battle with throat cancer in 2014. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to continue doing what he loved. His resilience and strength were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Rick Jeanneret’s impact on the hockey world cannot be overstated. His distinctive voice, charismatic personality, and unforgettable calls will forever be a part of the Sabres’ rich history. Although he may no longer be with us, his voice will live on through countless recordings and memories. Fans will forever remember his enthusiastic “Top shelf, where mama hides the cookies” and the countless other phrases he imbued with emotion.
The hockey community mourns the loss of a broadcasting legend, but Rick Jeanneret’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of announcers and fans alike. His contributions to the game and the city of Buffalo will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, RJ. Your voice will always be a symphony on ice.
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