Peter Maher, the iconic voice behind Calgary Flames radio broadcasts for over three decades, has passed away at the age of 79. The news of Maher’s death was confirmed on Thursday. He began his tenure as the play-by-play commentator for the Flames’ radio broadcasts in 1980 and remained dedicated to the team for 33 consecutive seasons. Throughout his illustrious career, which included the Flames’ Stanley Cup victory in 1989 and their journey to the finals in 2004, Maher’s enthusiasm and trademark catchphrases like “Yeah, baby!” and “You can put it in the win column!” endeared him to fans in Calgary.
Retiring after the 2013-14 NHL season, Maher left a lasting impact on the Flames organization. The team expressed their condolences to Maher’s loved ones and fans, acknowledging that his voice had become synonymous with being a Flames supporter. Described as a passionate ambassador for the Flames and a beloved figure in the community, Maher’s warmth, generosity, and love for the game touched countless lives, extending well beyond his broadcasting contributions.
Originally from Campbellton, New Brunswick, Maher previously called games for the Toronto Maple Leafs before seizing the opportunity to become the Flames’ official voice when the team relocated to Calgary in 1980. Reflecting on his career in a 2018 interview with CBC about his memoir “If These Walls Could Talk — Stories from the Calgary Flames’ Ice, Locker Room, and Press Box,” Maher expressed his gratitude for coming to Calgary, stating, “That’s the best thing that ever happened. The rest is history.”
Colleague Rob Kerr, who shared the press box with Maher for years, mourned the loss of a remarkable storyteller of Flames history. Kerr highlighted Maher’s dedication to his craft, emphasizing the broadcaster’s commitment to delivering authentic and journalistic-based coverage, particularly during an era when radio broadcasts played a vital role for Flames fans. Maher’s meticulous approach to his work was evident during pivotal moments like Calgary’s 2004 journey to the Stanley Cup Finals, where his iconic calls resonated with fans worldwide.
In addition to his contributions to Flames broadcasts, Maher called six NHL All-Star games, the 2005 IIHF World Championship, and the Canadian men’s hockey team’s games at the 2010 Winter Olympics, culminating in Sidney Crosby’s historic “Golden Goal.” Honored with induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006 and the naming of the broadcast booth at the Scotiabank Saddledome in his honor upon retirement in 2014, Maher’s legacy as a broadcasting legend and cherished figure in Calgary’s sports community endures.
