The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Dick Enberg, known for ‘Oh my!’ catchphrase, dies at 82
SAN DIEGO — Through six decades, whether it was broadcasting one of John Wooden’s basketball championships with UCLA, a no-hitter by Nolan Ryan or a dramatic point at Wimbledon, Dick Enberg excitedly summed up the big moments with two simple words: “Oh my!”
Enberg, a master at calling big events across the sports spectrum but who held a special love for baseball, died Thursday at 82.
Enberg’s daughter, Nicole Enberg Vaz, confirmed his death to The Associated Press. She said the family became concerned when her father didn’t arrive Thursday on his flight to Boston, and he was found dead at his home in La Jolla, a San Diego neighborhood, with his bags packed.
His daughter said the family believes Enberg died of a heart attack but was awaiting official word.
Enberg’s wife, Barbara, already was in Boston and was expecting his arrival.
“It’s very, very, very shocking,” said Vaz, who lives in Boston. “He’d been busy with two podcasts and was full of energy.”
Tributes poured in from around the sports world.
“To me, Dick Enberg was the greatest all-around sportscaster who ever lived and will never be emulated,” former Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully said in a statement. “He had my respect, admiration and my friendship. He will be sorely missed.”
Scully was among the first to congratulate Enberg when it was announced three years ago that he had been chosen for induction