Penguins: RIP Mike Lange

He was as much responsible for my love of the game as the game itself. The Pens were rarely on TV back in the 70's, so dad and I would listen on the radio and that's how I learned how the game was played, the penalties, rules, etc. Mike painted a picture; made the games interesting even when they weren't very good which was more often than not until the late 80's. He was to the Pens what Myron Cope was to the Steelers and Bob Prince was to the Pirates. He was unique, funny and personable. And he had few, damn few peers as a hockey play by play announcer. RIP Mikey. As Mark Madden said in his shows opening today, choking back tears, "Elvis has just left the building".

 

He put me to sleep many of nights when I was a child listening to him on my AM radio. RIP MIKE

 

The absolute best hockey announcer ever. Pittsburgh was fortunate to have that Californian fall in love with our town. RIP Mike. You brought us so many great memories!

 

tribute from the game today

 

Pens doing their best not to honor him

Fun game yesterday but Toronto beat them.