I truly believe I speak for all LA Kings fans in that we want you to take care of yourself. We're thrilled that you and your wife, Judy, can finally enjoy, as she put it, "the normal things that families get to do."
We celebrate your career and we appreciate the sacrifices your family has made, but we're also sad to see you retire.
You've been our collective eyes, our ears and our voice. Through you, we have all lived and breathed the LA Kings.
So many of us learned to appreciate the game of hockey by listening to your call. Over the years, you've taught us the game while never pandering or speaking in a condescending tone.
If the team was disappointing, you weren't afraid to say it, yet you were never cruel or petty.
Through ownership changes, roster turnovers, uniform redesigns, and even a new arena to call home, you were always there.
Through birthdays, weddings and funerals, you were there for us.
Yesterday, you spoke of your legacy and wanting it to include an "atmosphere of cooperation with fans and friendliness with fans." It seems like such a simple concept, but you've lived it so fully and so graciously. Seemingly, every fan and colleague holds you in the highest regard.
You've always been a peerless storyteller, but the frankness and honesty with which you described your health issues was possibly the most important story you've ever told. It convinced us all that this was the right decision made at the right time.
We'll miss hearing you on the broadcasts, but we'll cherish seeing you back at STAPLES Center. We'll thrill at every opportunity we have to shake your hand and thank you for your decades of service.
You told us, "There were times when I would say to myself, where would I rather be than right here doing this game."
Well, Bob Miller, there was no other place we'd rather have you, either.
Thank you for being the voice, the heart, and the spirit of the LA Kings.
Sincerely,
Jesse Cohen, and LA Kings fans everywhere
