Longtime NHL Announcer Bill Davidge Dead Thursday at 72

The Columbus Blue Jackets and the wider hockey world lost a beloved figure this week as longtime analyst Bill Davidge passed away. He was 72 years old.

Davidge's passing was announced on Wednesday by the Blue Jackets and other outlets. In a statement, the team offered its condolences to their longtime analyst and former scout. The team praised Davidge for the massive role he had in being an ambassador for the team and the greater Columbus community.

"The Columbus Blue Jackets are deeply saddened by the passing of Bill Davidge, who spent two decades with the club as a scout and longtime color analyst on radio and television," the team said in a statement.

"Our organization has never known a greater advocate or ambassador for our team and sport than Bill. If the Blue Jackets were somewhere in the community there was a good chance Bill was there. And he was making an impact. There were no strangers in his world, only friends.

"HOCKEY. THE BLUE JACKETS. OHIO STATE. MIAMI UNIVERSITY. GOLF. PEOPLE. Bill had many passions in life, but none stronger than FAMILY. We send our sincerest condolences to his wife, Jayna, children, grandchildren and many, many friends and fans. All that knew him are better for it.

"'Oh Baby... you better believe it!' Bill will be missed but never forgotten. Thanks, Billy, for everything."