Mike Lange

Pittsburgh Mourns the Loss of Legendary Penguins Broadcaster Mike Lange at 76

Pittsburgh is in mourning following the death of Mike Lange, the iconic voice of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who passed away at his home on Wednesday at the age of 76. Lange, known for his colorful expressions and passionate delivery, spent over four decades bringing Penguins hockey to life for generations of fans. His passing marks the end of an era for Pittsburgh sports broadcasting.

A Voice That Defined a Dynasty

For many, Mike Lange was Penguins hockey. His unique blend of enthusiasm and creative catchphrases, like "He beat him like a rented mule!" and "Ladies and gentlemen, the Honz has just left the building!", became synonymous with the team's success. More than just an announcer, Lange was a storyteller, weaving narratives that captivated listeners and made them feel like they were right in the heart of the action. His energy was infectious, his knowledge of the game impeccable, and his love for the Penguins undeniable.

Recent Updates: Remembering a Legend

News of Lange's death broke on Wednesday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the hockey world. KDKA, a local Pittsburgh news outlet, was among the first to report the news, confirming that Lange passed away at his home in Pittsburgh. WTAE Pittsburgh also confirmed the passing.

The Pittsburgh Penguins released a statement, calling Lange "a wordsmith — a magician behind the mic." The team further noted that "The Californian quickly became a quintessential Pittsburgher, and his colorful calls and smooth cadence brought Penguins hockey to life."

From California to the Steel City: How Mike Lange Became a Pittsburgh Icon

Born in Sacramento, California, Mike Lange's journey to becoming a Pittsburgh icon is a testament to his talent and personality. He arrived in Pittsburgh in the 1970s and quickly immersed himself in the city's sports culture. While the exact details of his early career are still being researched, it's clear that his passion for hockey and his unique broadcasting style resonated with Pittsburghers from the start. He initially handled TV broadcasts for the Penguins for 30 years before transitioning to radio, where he remained until his retirement in 2021, marking the end of a remarkable 46-year career.

A Legacy of Catchphrases and Championship Calls

Mike Lange's impact extends far beyond simply calling the play-by-play. He created a language of hockey, a lexicon of memorable phrases that became ingrained in the Penguins' identity. Here are a few examples:

• "He beat him like a rented mule!" - Used when a player outmaneuvers an opponent.
• "Ladies and gentlemen, Elvis has just left the building!" (Later adapted to "the Honz") - Signifying the end of the game.
• "Get in the fast lane, Grandma, the bingo game is ready to roll!" - Used when the Penguins were on a scoring streak.
• "Scratch my back with a hacksaw!" - Exclaiming excitement

These phrases, delivered with Lange's signature enthusiasm, not only entertained fans but also helped to define some of the most memorable moments in Penguins history. His calls of the Penguins' Stanley Cup victories are etched in the memories of Pittsburgh sports fans.

The Immediate Effects: A City in Mourning

The news of Mike Lange's passing has sent a wave of sadness through Pittsburgh. Social media is flooded with tributes from fans, former players, and fellow broadcasters, all sharing their favorite Lange memories. Local news outlets are dedicating significant coverage to his life and career, highlighting his impact on the city.

The Penguins organization is expected to hold a tribute to Lange at their next home game, providing fans with an opportunity to celebrate his life and legacy. The loss is deeply felt by the entire Pittsburgh community.

Mike "Doc" Emrick, a fellow broadcasting legend, greatly admired Lange's work. "He had a special ability to feel a game, where it was headed and what the fans at home were thinking."

The Future Outlook: Lange's Voice Will Live On

While Mike Lange is no longer with us, his voice and legacy will continue to resonate in Pittsburgh for years to come. His catchphrases will be repeated, his stories will be retold, and his passion for the Penguins will continue to inspire future generations of fans.

His influence on sports broadcasting is undeniable. He demonstrated the power of personality and creativity in connecting with audiences.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have a challenge ahead: to find a way to honor Lange's memory while continuing to build on the tradition he helped create. While no one can truly replace Mike Lange, his spirit will undoubtedly live on in the broadcast booth and in the hearts of Penguins fans everywhere. His impact will be felt for decades to come.

Mike Lange's career was honored with the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award in 2001, solidifying his place among the giants of hockey broadcasting. This recognition highlights the significant contributions he made to the sport and the lasting impression he left on fans across North America.

A Final Farewell to a Pittsburgh Legend

Mike Lange was more than just a sports broadcaster; he was a part of the fabric of Pittsburgh. His voice was the soundtrack to countless memories, and his passion for the Penguins was infectious. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and by the countless fans who grew up listening to his calls. Rest in peace, Mike. "Hallelujah, Holy Mackeral, he did it again!"