Tom Cheek

From BR Bullpen

• Born June 13, 1939 in Pensacola, FL
• Died October 9, 2005 in Oldsmar, FL

Tom Cheek was an announcer for the Montreal Expos (1974-76) then the Toronto Blue Jays from their debut in 1977 until he was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2004. He was behind the microphone for every Jays game from their opener until 2004, when he took off June 3 due to his father's death. His streak ran to 4,306 consecutive games in the regular season and 41 more post-season contests. A finalist for the Ford Frick Award in his final year of life, Cheek's most famous call was in the 1993 World Series - when Joe Carter hit the Series-winning homer, Cheek said "Touch 'em all, Joe. You'll never hit a bigger home run in your life."

Although he planned to work the 2005 season, Cheek was unable to regain his health. He died of brain cancer on October 9, 2005.

Source: Obituary by the Associated Press