Oklahoma Mourns the Loss of Bob Barry, Sr.

NORMAN, Okla. -- Bob Barry, Sr., the "Voice of the Sooners" from 1961-1972 and 1991-2011, has passed away at the age of 80. Following are official statements released by the University of Oklahoma...

OU President David L. Boren:
"Bob Barry represented the best of the Sooner spirit. With his contagious enthusiasm, he was one of the best sports broadcast journalists in the entire nation. He was loved by Oklahomans all across our entire state and will be missed by all of us."

OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione:
"We have lost a true legend in Bob Barry. He was our eyes when we couldn't see, our voice when unable to speak and our passion when we needed it expressed. For 50 years he made extraordinary contributions to help build our wonderful Oklahoma tradition, and did so while maintaining a positive outlook that always saw the best in others. We will be forever grateful for Bob Barry."

OU Football Head Coach Bob Stoops:
"We send our condolences to Bob's family and thank them for sharing him with us for so many years. I know this is a difficult time for them, but hope they can find comfort in a life well-lived and the love of countless fans all over the country."

Current OU Announcer Toby Rowland:
"I never saw Bob have a bad day. He loved life. And he loved his job. Even after 50 years of broadcasting he would show up at the stadium like a kid in a candy store. His play by play style was unmistakable, but it is his gentle, kind and fun-loving spirit that I will always remember. His advice and words of wisdom will forever be cherished in my heart. This is a tremendously sad day, but I rejoice that Heaven just got a Legend."