Rick ‘RJ’ Jeanneret, the most famous Buffalo Sabres’ play-by-play man, has left the world. In his journey, RJ leaves 51 years of legacy behind the microphone as one of the industry’s biggest icons. The tragic news came in the early hours of Friday after he died Thursday night, August 17, 2023. Let’s explore the legend’s cause of death and his career in light of the tragedy.
Buffalo Sabres’ Rick Jeanneret dies at 81
Jeanneret’s contribution to the industry is exemplary. The Hall of Famer retired just a year ago after becoming the longest-tenured play-by-play announcer in NHL history. Following years of marvelous performances in the broadcasting booth, Rick Jeanneret passed away on August 17 after a two-year battle with multi-organ failures.
A statement from the family of Rick Jeanneret. 🤍 pic.twitter.com/0vnbXAxytN
— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) August 18, 2023
- In his last moments, RJ was accompanied by his family, who remember him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother. The NHL and Buffalo Sabres fans remember him for his energetic and high-powered goal and fight calls, making him a staple for the league highlight packages.
- He also left behind many famous lines that his fans often imitate. This list is practically led by the May Day call for Brad May’s overtime goal during the first round of the 1993 Stanley Cup Playoffs that ended their 10-year drought of playoff wins. Followed by the snippets, the “Top shelf where Mama hides the cookies,” “We are not worthy,” “Call a cop, He robbed him,” “Roll the highlight film,” and many more.
Jeanneret has a 51-year legacy as Buffalo Sabres play-by-play man
RJ started his career as an analyst for Buffalo Sabres’ radio broadcast during the 1970-71 season, the team’s second season in NHL. He moved to television in 1995 but had to stop traveling in the latter years of his life.
- He gave his ‘Last Call‘ in 2021-22, capped by RJ Night at KeyBank Center on April 1, 2022, against the Nashville Predators. During this memorable event, RJ joined former owners Seymour and Northrop Knox as the only non-players at KeyBank Center as the capper to a pregame ceremony.
- His last game on April 29, 2022, with an overtime win against Chicago, was yet another memorable moment in his career. Following it, he came down on the ice surrounded by the calls of ‘RJ RJ‘ that spanned a night of celebrations.
Tributes pour in for the NHL legend
The colleagues, Buffalo Sabres fans, and NHL contemporaries shared tribute for the legendary play-by-play man. They remembered his extensive contribution behind the microphone and his life as a kind person. There are just as many events celebrating his kindness as his popular snippets. Read some of the tributes below.
Rick Jeanneret signing off for the final time. Great words to live by. We will miss you. RIP RJ. https://t.co/X3EVTG56WE pic.twitter.com/Nx0qXUf46e
— Jay Money (@insiderJmoney) August 18, 2023
Don't watch this video. Listen to it. This is Rick Jeanneret. To this day, one of the best calls in NHL history. pic.twitter.com/zEJ2s78faR
— JK (@jack_kinsman) August 18, 2023
this hits close to home.. decades of Sabres fans grew up on and still adore your voice and passion for the game, you and your legendary calls will be missed dearly, I'm glad you got to watch me and tons of Sabres fans grow up♥️ we love you forever Rick Jeanneret #RIPRJ♥️♥️🥹 pic.twitter.com/kANzVuIIaI
— 裏山幸子🔴⚪( Jade/Sach) (@JadeUrayama) August 18, 2023
It is scientifically impossible to make a Stu Barnes goal call as good as Rick Jeanneret did.
RIP. pic.twitter.com/UcIUWYHMOn
— Seth Rorabaugh (@SethRorabaugh) August 18, 2023
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- Rick Jeanneret is survived by his wife, sons Mark and Chris, and stepdaughter Shelly, as well as his grandchildren. On this day, when his fans bid him his last farewell, they remember the multiple times his commentaries accompanied them during the games.
Spiel Times shares its condolences to the family and friends of the legendary voice of NHL Rick RJ Jeanneret.
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