Stephanie Lange: The Woman Behind the Legend
Stephanie Lange, wife of iconic Pittsburgh Penguins play-by-play announcer Mike Lange, was a private person during her husband’s long and storied career. As Mike’s call became forever associated with Penguins hockey, Stephanie shied away from the public eye, supporting her husband every step of the way behind the scenes. A vision of grace and reserve, she was always there for him as he created a legacy that would last for generations.
Mike Lange: Age, Career, Death & Cause
Mike Lange didn’t think he would last a week in Pittsburgh. But he went on to become one of the most iconic voices in hockey history. Born March 3, 1948, in Sacramento, California, Lange graduated from Sacramento State with a broadcasting degree before pursuing a play-by-play career. He worked for teams like the Phoenix Roadrunners and San Diego Gulls before joining the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1974. Though he briefly left in 1975, he returned the following year and remained the team’s voice for over four decades.
Lange’s unique blend of wit and attention to detail, coupled with his repertoire of colorful catchphrases, made him a beloved figure in the NHL. His signature calls—”Michael, Michael, motorcycle!” and “He beat him like a rented mule!”—were as much a part of the Penguins’ identity as the team itself. He called five Stanley Cup championships (1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017) and documented the team’s highs and lows with a love of the game that was uncommon.
Lange received the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award in 2001, which solidified his place in the Hockey Hall of Fame. In addition to hockey, he also did voice-over work for Pittsburgh Pirates broadcasts and other sporting events.
Mike Lange passed away on February 19, 2024, at the age of 76. While no official cause of death was disclosed at the time, he had retired from broadcasting in 2021 due to health reasons. His legacy as the voice of the Penguins will keep his memorable calls echoing in the hearts of fans for generations to come.