CALGARY – There are broadcasters you remember for the calls.

And then there are broadcasters you remember for the way they made you feel.

Peter Maher was both.

On the radio, he had the ability to make you feel like you were watching the game.

In person, he could make you feel like a million bucks.

The legendary voice of the Calgary Flames died Thursday at 79, leaving behind 33 seasons, nearly 3,000 games, a Hockey Hall of Fame plaque and enough adoring fans and colleagues to fill every arena in the league.

But his greatest legacy may have nothing to do with hockey.

It was how he treated people.

Sincerity. Integrity. Dedication. Respect.

Those were the four pillars of the career and life of a man who had no ego, no edge and no interest in making anyone feel small.

That’s why, when Maher retired 13 years ago, Calgary’s media created an award in his honour. 

Every year, the Peter Maher Good Guy Award goes to the Flames player who best represents those qualities. The most respected man in the room.

And every year, Peter showed up to present it.

Even this spring, amidst an awful battle with his knees, he arrived with a walker. And watching a room full of what’s left of Calgary media types fall all over themselves trying to help him get around........

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