Barbero was the Penguins public address announcer from 1972-2009. He was the voice behind every one of Mario Lemieux's home goals, and created a signature call for No. 66, in which he would drag out the 'uuuu' at the end of Mario's last name.
Barbero was diagnosed with Astrocytoma in February of 2009, but decided he would finish out the season as the voice of Mellon Arena. As a result of his bravery and will, Barbero was able to see the Pens raise their third Stanley Cup. His last game announced was a 2-1 win over Detroit in Game 6 of the Cup Finals.
As with all things that last 38 years, his voice in the arena became iconic. It was really strange and hard to get used to the new voice announcing goals. Barbero had a pacing and style to his calls that were second to none. Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Lange called Barbero, " a giant amont PA announcers in the world of sports."
While he will be most remembered for his announcements concering Lemieux's goals, I will most remember Barbero's call of 2009 mid-season defensive aquistion Phillipe Boucher. Granted Boucher didn't exactly light up the score sheet, but when he did tally a point, Barbero really let the crowd know.
The Pittsburgh goal scored by number 43 Phil-leeep Booooooooo-shay. Classic.
Barbero will always be a part of the Penguins and Pittsburgh sports tradition.
I guess it's fitting that old lady Mellon and it's voice will be able to rest in peace together. It is a shame his iconic vocals won't get to echo through the new Consol Energy Center.
Here is a video about Barbero, done by FSN in 2007.
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