Legendary radio voice Gil Santos dead at age 80

BOSTON — Gil Santos, the longtime radio voice of the New England Patriots, has died at the age of 80.

Santos, born on April 19, 1938, was part of Patriots radio broadcasts for more than 30 years. He was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2013, shortly after his retirement following the 2012 season.

“For generations of Patriots fans, Gil Santos was and forever will be known as the ‘Voice of the Patriots.’ Tonight, I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing on a day that he was celebrating his 80th birthday and his 57th wedding anniversary to his wife, Roberta," said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft. "Gil was a legendary broadcaster, who for 36 years passionately described the play-by-play detail of every Patriots game during his career, including many of the most memorable moments in franchise history.

"It was my privilege to honor Gil with his induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2013. His legacy and most memorable calls will live there for future generations of Patriots fans to enjoy. On behalf of the entire Patriots organization, we extend our sincerest sympathies to Roberta, his daughter Kathleen, his son Mark and the many others who are mourning his loss.”

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick offered his own thoughts of Santos after his passing.

"Gil Santos' bond with anyone who ever met or heard him is timeless," Belichick said in a statement released by the team. "He will forever remain a special figure in the lives of generations of players, coaches and fans who knew him and in the lives of those who will hear his legendary voice in the future. Gil was a great friend and he will be missed. His family is in my thoughts and prayers."

Teamed with Gino Cappelletti, Santos set the standard for NFL broadcasts. His soothing tone and authoritative delivery defined Sundays in the fall and winter for Patriots fans.

Santos also called games for the Boston Celtics, Boston Breakers of the USFL, Boston College, Penn State and Providence.

He was born in Acushnet and reared in Fairhaven.

Cox Media Group