What a legend. I don't think there's been a unique/distinct voice in hockey play-by-play since he retired. (I guess I'm just thinking Canada, Doc Emrick was definitely distinct).
Despite his age, never got the sense he ever turned into a grumpy, hate-the-kids-and-stats type like so many others of his generation. Just seemed to love the game in a pure, simple way.
Ah man - that's really something. Obviously a professionally-rotten day for him but so sincere to give a meaningful tribute in the moment. Well done.
(OT-ish: Jon Cooper singlehandedly made me kinda like the Lightning - I love hearing him speak. Hoping whenever (if) he retires he can be a Ken Dryden for the next generation...)