On Thursday, longtime Sabres broadcaster Rick Jeanneret passed away at the age of 81. The voice of the Buffalo Sabres for over half a century is being mourned by the organization and by the hockey world.

When you think of the Sabres, one legendary voice comes to mind. That is how much Rick Jeanneret means to the legions of Buffalo fans in Western New York. For 51 years, the man affectionately known as RJ became one of the most beloved broadcasters in hockey. His signature calls are the thing of legend.

“May Day” is fondly remembered as one of those exciting calls. It highlighted a great goal scored by Brad May in overtime to beat the rival Bruins on April 24, 1993. They advanced to the Adams Division Finals.

It was his enthusiasm combined with the passion that defined Jeanneret as one of the most exciting play-by-play men in sports. He had a unique style that made him fun to listen to. The way he described the game is what makes him one of my favorite broadcasters.

Whether it be a big hit like the one Brian Campbell caught R.J. Umberger with during a playoff game against the Flyers or an epic goalie fight such as the battle between Martin Biron and the late Ray Emery, Jeanneret made each game entertaining for the listener and viewer. Even in death, nobody will ever forget him.

Tons of tributes poured out from the hockey community on social media. When you have a brilliant career like Jeanneret, did that highlighted getting inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame for the Foster Hewitt Award in 2012, he left a tremendous mark. A true legend who was an authentic person will be fondly remembered.

From a personal standpoint, I was introduced to RJ by one of my closest friends. A diehard Sabres fan, Brian Sanborn, got me into watching games on the Empire Sports Network. Hearing the energy and excitement with which Jeanneret called games got me hooked. One of my favorite calls was “Top Shelf. Where Mama hides the cookies.” A perfect description for a goal that beat a goalie high glove or stick side.

It wouldn’t be a tribute without thinking of the many robberies Dominik Hasek committed. Jeanneret always had a knack for memorable calls whenever the legendary Hasek robbed someone blind. “Call A Cop!” That stands out. So does, “It’s another miracle.” That was what separated him from other broadcasters. He called the games with a youthful enthusiasm.

One moment that I’ll always remember was getting the chance to meet the man. It was my final game working for the Devils. The Sabres were visiting The Meadowlands. Due to the snow, they arrived late. I was in the press room when I went to make a copy for our production truck. There was Rick Jeanneret getting some preparation done for the broadcast.

I introduced myself. I told him about how big a fan Brian was of both the Sabres and RJ. He couldn’t have been nicer. He truly was a gentleman. I only wish Brian could’ve been there for that.

The game turned out to be memorable. The Sabres held on for a 1-0 win. A shutout for Hasek, who bested the legendary Martin Brodeur. The thing that stands out is the Devils thought they tied it. But Brian Rafalski’s last second shot didn’t beat the buzzer. It was a tad late.

The ride home was tough. Luckily, I made it home in one piece.

When I think of RJ, I’m instantly blown away that he was part of the Sabres from 1971-72 to 2021-22. Imagine having your dream job that you always wanted to do for most of your life. That’s exactly how Jeanneret described it.

He will always be part of Sabres lore. He is the Buffalo Sabres.

Rick is survived by wife Sandra, sons Mark and Chris, and stepdaughter, Shelly.

RIP 💜 🙏🏿✨️🌟

RICK JEANNERET (July 23, 1942 – August 17, 2023)