For decades, the Pittsburgh Penguins followers weren’t just listening to the game—they were experiencing it with the legendary voice of Mike Lange. From a go-ahead tally to a burst of raw pandemonium on the ice, Lange had the words to uphold the magic of hockey. His legendary calls weren’t simply sayings; they were moments seared into the memory of several of the most iconic moments of the team’s history.

But now, the voice that had defined Penguins hockey for a generation is silenced. With tributes pouring out of the sports world, this much is certain—the effect goes well beyond the broadcasting studio. And the question that the city of Pittsburgh must grapple with is this: How will the city honor the man that was the voice of its finest moments of hockey?

The Pittsburgh Penguins publicly confirmed Lange’s passing on Wednesday, saying that the legendary sportscaster had died at 76 at his home in Pittsburgh. Born a native of California, Lange was a Steel City icon who made a name for his classic sayings and boisterous broadcasts, which filled the Penguins’ booth for well over four decades.

“Mike Lange was a wordsmith—a magician behind the mic. The Californian quickly became a quintessential Pittsburgher, and his colorful calls and smooth cadence brought Penguins hockey to life. The Hall-of-Famer’s voice is synonymous with the biggest calls in franchise history,” the Penguins’ press release declared. “Because of him, Hockey Nights in Pittsburgh had the entire city ‘smilin’ like a butcher’s dog.’”

Tributes from his closest associates flooded in. Radio broadcasting colleague Phil Bourque wrote of his devastation, saying Lange was “one of the kindest, most loyal, and loving humans.” Penguins broadcaster Josh Getzoff wrote of his gratitude: “The legendary calls, the jokes, the messages, the advice, the guidance, and most importantly, the friendship. Love ya. Miss ya.” Greg Brown, the voice of the Pirates, declared his friendship with Lange “marrow-deep,” while experienced commentator Bob Grove hailed him as “an absolute master of his craft” who “fit perfectly with the people of Pittsburgh.”

How will the Pittsburgh Penguins fans commemorate his legacy?

While the hockey world reflects upon Lange’s legacy, the Steel City is already abuzz with ideas for honoring him perpetually. Fans and sports personalities are clamoring to erect a statue at the PPG Paints Arena to ensure that the next generation knows Penguins hockey’s voice.

Local radio personality Dan Zangrilli was among the first to float the idea, posting on Twitter that “Mike Lange should have a statue outside the arena.” Many others agreed that his iconic status warrants a physical representation among the best of Steel City’s legends.

Beyond a statue, another possibility is the retirement of Lange’s legendary sayings within the arena itself, with the signs showcasing his best-known calls—“Elvis has just left the building” and “Buy Sam a drink and get his dog one too!”—reminding his memory within the very arena that made him legendary.

Additionally, there are increasing calls to have the Pittsburgh Penguins have a yearly ‘Mike Lange Night’ where the best of his work can be replayed again and his efforts to the organization can be remembered for a lifetime to come. With all the voices clamoring to have a tribute made to him, something is specific: Pittsburgh will not allow Mike Lange to be forgotten.

Though Mike Lange is gone, his voice, his intensity, and his unmistakable presence will forever be a part of the culture of the Pittsburgh Penguins. His legendary broadcasts and larger-than-life personality made him a bigger-than-broadcast presence—that is to say, a presence greater than the mere broadcasting itself.

As Pittsburgh mourns, the question is the next step. How will the Penguins honor Lange’s memory next season? It could be a statue, a banner, or a yearly ceremony, but this much is certain: the man who gave the fans so many memories is owed a memory of their own. Rest in peace, Mike Lange. Your voice will not soon be forgotten.