Rick Jeanneret, legendary Sabers broadcaster, has died aged 81
BUFFALO, NY (WIVB) – Rick Jeanneret, the legendary Buffalo Sabers broadcaster who called the team for five decades, has died at the age of 81, the team confirmed to News 4.
Jeanneret turned 81 on July 23.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, Buffalo Sabers Hall of Famer Rick Jeanneret,” the team said in a statement. “Rick passed away with his family by his side on August 17, 2023 after a two-year battle with multiple organ failure. He will be loved forever.”
His powerful broadcasting style and goal calls made him a staple of NHL broadcasts and highlight reels for decades, from the team’s sophomore season in 1971 until his retirement at the end of the 2021-22 season.
Towards the end of his career, Jeanneret reduced his travels with the team, with eventual successor Dan Dunleavy taking on the vast majority of play-by-play duties. The 21-22 season was his last season in the NHL and became known as “RJ’s Last Call”. His last game was on April 29, 2022.
He was inducted into the Sabers Hall of Fame in 2011, and a year later inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame and the Buffalo Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
He leaves behind his wife Sandra.
The Buffalo News first reported it Story.
Aidan Joly joined the News 4 team in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here.
