Renowned for his more than three-decade tenure as the voice of Calgary Flames radio broadcasts, Peter Maher has passed away at the age of 79. His death was confirmed on Thursday. Maher began his role as the play-by-play commentator for the Flames’ radio broadcasts in 1980 and continued for 33 consecutive seasons until his retirement after the 2013-14 NHL season. Throughout his illustrious career, which included the Flames’ Stanley Cup victory in 1989 and their 2004 finals appearance, Maher became known for his fervor for the game and popular catchphrases such as “Yeah, baby!” and “You can put it in the win column!”
The Calgary Flames expressed their condolences to Maher’s loved ones and fans, emphasizing that his voice had become an integral part of the Flames fan experience. Maher, originally from Campbellton, N.B., had previously called Toronto Maple Leafs games before joining the Flames in 1980 when the team relocated to Calgary from Atlanta.
Rob Kerr, a former colleague of Maher’s, lauded Maher’s dedication to his craft and storytelling abilities, particularly highlighting Maher’s commitment to providing Flames fans with engaging broadcasts. Maher’s impactful career extended beyond the Flames, including calling six NHL All-Star games, the 2005 IIHF World Championship, and the Canadian men’s hockey team’s games at the 2010 Winter Olympics. Maher was posthumously honored with the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award and induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006 for his exceptional work as an NHL broadcaster. Maher’s legacy lives on through various tributes, including the naming of the broadcast booth at the Scotiabank Saddledome in his honor and an annual award presented to a Flames player exemplifying sincerity, integrity, dedication, and respect.