Dallas Stars television play-by-play announcer Dave Strader died Sunday morning of cholangiocarcinoma, a form of bile duct cancer.
Strader began calling games for the Stars in 2015-16. In 2017, he received the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award recognizing his outstanding contributions to hockey broadcasting over his career.
Known as "The Voice," Strader's career began in 1979, calling games for the AHL's Adirondack Red Wings. He is likely best known as the No. 2 play-by-play announcer behind Mike "Doc" Emrick for the NHL on NBC.
"Everyone who knew him, and everyone who was able to listen to him call games, is saddened to learn about the passing of Dave Strader," Stars president and CEO Jim Lites said in a press release. "His voice is synonymous with hockey to fans all over the globe and he built a connection for so many fans to this game. More importantly, he was a tremendous husband, father, grandfather and friend and we will miss him deeply. Our sincerest prayers and condolences are directed to his wife Colleen and their entire family."
Strader was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma in June 2016.
The hockey world was saddened by the loss.
Just heard the news about Dave Strader. A gentle soul who loved the game is gone too soon. R.I.P 💔
— Andi Petrillo (@AndiPetrillo) October 1, 2017
Awful news. A friendly face who will be missed in rinks around the NHL. Condolences to his family. https://t.co/gMnExT70Yf
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) October 1, 2017
Don’t know what to say, other than Dave was an absolute professional. We all admired the way he approached his job and carried himself. https://t.co/RIBxTnL3Xl
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 1, 2017
Awful, awful news. One of the best announcers in hockey. Will seriously be missed https://t.co/7SNptxbLen
— Pete Blackburn (@PeteBlackburn) October 1, 2017
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