Calgary lost one of its most familiar voices on Friday, with longtime Flames radio announcer Peter Maher dying at 79.
Maher was a fixture behind the microphone for 33 years, and his run was as steady as they come: he called every Flames game from 1980 through his retirement after the 2013-14 season. His voice lived on CFAC for that entire stretch, making him a constant for generations of fans.
The Flames acknowledged his death with a statement that made clear how much more he meant to the organization than just a broadcast presence. “Peter’s legacy extends well beyond the broadcast booth,” the team said in part. “He was a passionate ambassador for the Calgary Flames, a devoted member of the community and a person whose warmth, generosity and love for the game touched countless lives.
“The Calgary Flames extend their deepest condolences to Peter’s family, friends, former colleagues and the many fans who came to know and love him over his extraordinary career.”
Maher’s family also released a statement of their own. “It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of our dad, Peter Maher,” it read.
“To so many people, Peter was the longtime voice of the Calgary Flames. To us, he was simply Dad.
“We are heartbroken by his passing and grateful for the love, friendship and support he received throughout his life.”
Even after stepping away from full-time broadcasting, Maher still showed up around the Saddledome, including his annual presentation of the Peter Maher Good Guy Award. The honor is handed out by local media to the player judged to show the best sincerity, integrity, dedication, and respect.
His presence was so woven into the Flames’ identity that the current radio crew now works from the Peter Maher Broadcast Booth at the Scotiabank Saddledome.
And for fans who grew up with his calls, the memories will come back in a flash: “Yeah baby!” and “You can put it in the win column!”
Maher’s family said funeral arraingements will be shared in the coming days.
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