The Calgary Flames community mourns the loss of Peter Maher, the iconic voice of Flames radio broadcasts for over three decades, who passed away at the age of 79. Maher’s tenure as the play-by-play commentator for Flames radio broadcasts began in 1980 and spanned 33 consecutive seasons until his retirement after the 2013-14 NHL season.
Throughout his illustrious career, Maher became synonymous with the Flames, particularly during their Stanley Cup victory in 1989 and their journey to the finals in 2004. Known for his distinctive catchphrases like “Yeah, baby!” and “You can put it in the win column!” Maher’s passion for his craft endeared him to fans in Calgary.
The Flames expressed their heartfelt condolences to Maher’s loved ones and fans, acknowledging his significant contribution to the team and the community. Maher’s impact extended beyond the broadcast booth, with the Flames recognizing him as a dedicated ambassador and a beloved figure whose warmth and love for the game touched countless lives.
Born in Campbellton, N.B., Maher transitioned to calling Flames games after the team relocated to Calgary in 1980, leaving behind his role as a broadcaster for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Reflecting on his career in a memoir titled “If These Walls Could Talk — Stories from the Calgary Flames’ Ice, Locker Room, and Press Box,” Maher described his move to Calgary as a pivotal moment in his life.
Rob Kerr, Maher’s colleague in the Saddledome press box, paid tribute to Maher’s storytelling prowess and commitment to delivering authentic and journalistic-based commentary to Flames fans. Kerr highlighted Maher’s meticulous approach to his work, citing an instance during the 2004 Stanley Cup Finals when Maher’s exuberant “Yeah, baby!” call captured international attention.
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. His exceptional work as an NHL broadcaster earned him induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006, receiving the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award.
Following his retirement, Maher’s legacy was honored by naming the broadcast booth in the Scotiabank Saddledome after him. Moreover, an annual award, embodying Maher’s values of sincerity, integrity, dedication, and respect, is presented to the Flames player who best exemplifies these virtues by local media in Calgary.