Buffalo, N.Y. (WGR 550) - The Buffalo Sabres, in partnership with the Buffalo Common Council, will honor the late Rick Jeanneret, through the dedication of a pair of Trailblazing Signs on Perry Street outside of KeyBank Center in Downtown Buffalo.
Throughout his storied 51-year career being the play-by-play voice of Sabres hockey, Jeanneret's iconic calls, including "May Day" and "Scary Good," have become indelible moments in franchise history, etching themselves into the hearts and minds of fans.
In honor of Jeanneret's lifelong dedication to his family and the Sabres organization, the Buffalo Common Council has submitted a Trailblazing Sign Resolution calling for the installation of Trailblazing Signs at the corners of Illinois Street and Perry Street and Washington Street and Perry Street, proclaiming the stretch of Perry Street: "RJ Way."
“This Trailblazing Sign will stand as an enduring tribute to Rick Jeanneret and all that he has done for the Buffalo Sabres organization, our fans and the city of Buffalo as a whole,” said Sabres Chief Operating Officer, John Roth in a team statement. “RJ forged an unbreakable bond with the city and the people of Buffalo. This gesture is one of many ways we can express our gratitude for his unwavering dedication to all of us. We know that it will serve as a tremendous reminder of the man who made Sabres hockey come alive, and whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Sabres faithful."
The unveiling of the Trailblazing Sign to honor Jeanneret will take place on Thursday, Oct. 12 before the Sabres’ season and home opener against the New York Rangers at KeyBank Center. Fans and the public are strongly encouraged to attend.
This dedication serves as a lasting tribute to Jeanneret's indomitable spirit and the joy he brought to hockey fans throughout the region, as well as the sport itself. It also symbolizes the enduring impact of his work and his role in fostering a deep love for hockey within countless members of the Western New York community.
"Rick Jeanneret's legendary voice echoed through Sabres fans’ hearts, airwaves, and arenas for decades, becoming synonymous with Buffalo Sabres hockey,” said Fillmore District Councilmember Mitch Nowakowski, co-sponsor of the Trailblazing Sign Resolution. “This Trailblazing Sign dedication is not just about commemorating a broadcaster; it's about honoring a man who united our city with his passion for the game.”
“As a lifelong Sabres fan, there are moments in time etched in my memory through the iconic voice of Rick Jeanneret,” added South District Councilmember Christopher Scanlon. “He was every bit a part of the team as the French Connection, Pat LaFontaine, Dominik Hasek, Ryan Miller, Lindy Ruff and the countless other greats. The Buffalo Sabres, the City of Buffalo and this community will forever miss one of its best.”
The resolution, “Nowakowski, Scanlon - Trailblazing Resolution for Rick Jeanneret” will be on the agenda for the Tuesday, Sept. 19 Buffalo Common Council Meeting where, upon approval, copies of this resolution will be sent to the Department of Public Works to begin the process of designing the Trailblazing Sign.
Jeanneret is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra, his children, Mark, Chris, and Shelly, as well as cherished grandchildren. His legacy as a devoted family man and a beloved figure in the community continues to shine brightly.
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