Myron Cope, signature voice of the Steelers, creator of the Terrible Towel, and the guy who perhaps introduced more nonsensical, non-words into the public lexicon than any other, passed away this morning. He was 79.

There are a million and one stories and legends making the rounds about Myron, it wouldn't do him justice to try and recount any of them. He was most famous for his squeaky voice, self deprecating humor, and immense generosity. He was an amazing writer, authoring acclaimed pieces on Cassius Clay and an article on Howard Cosell that Sports Illustrated recognized as one of the 50 greatest articles in it's history. He took over the Steelers color job in 1970 and held it until his failing health forced his retirement in 2005.

Cope created the Terrible Towel in 1975 as a marketing gimmick to get Pittsburgh fans more involved in the game.  We all know how that turned out.  In an immensely selfless act, he signed over the licensing rights for the item to the Allegheny Valley School (a local outfit that cares for mentally and physically disabled kids).  Most estimates have AVS raising over a $1 million dollars in the past decade on sales of the Terrible Towel.   

And of course, if your face is emblazoned on an Iron City can, you know you're the real deal.  

So long, Myron.  And check out the very befitting write-up in the Pittsburgh Trib.

Also, go vote for your favorite Myron Cope catchphrase – Myron Cope Poll  

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Tags: myron cope, NFL, steelers

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