What's Happening?
Darrell Aune, the former radio voice for Oregon State athletics, has passed away at the age of 83. Aune began covering Oregon State in 1970 for KEX-AM in Portland and served as the play-by-play announcer until 1999. He was known for his distinctive calls,
including the memorable phrase, "Holy jumping up and down, Martha! Can you believe this?" which he uttered during an Oregon State men's basketball comeback victory against Oregon in 1987. His successor, Mike Parker, who has been the voice of Oregon State athletics since 1999, spoke highly of Aune's legacy. The Joe Beaver Show, a sports talk program on Oregon State's flagship sports radio station KEJO-AM, dedicated its broadcast to Aune, featuring his call of Ken Simonton's overtime-walkoff touchdown run in the 1998 Civil War. Aune's career extended beyond Oregon State, as he also covered University of Portland men's basketball, NCAA Division III Linfield College football and basketball, and NCAA Division II Western Oregon University football and basketball after his tenure with the Beavers. He is survived by his wife Catherine, sons David and Brian, and daughter Marilou.
Why It's Important?
Darrell Aune's passing marks the end of an era for Oregon State sports broadcasting, impacting a generation of fans and aspiring broadcasters. His distinctive voice and memorable calls became synonymous with key moments in Oregon State athletic history, particularly during a time when radio was the primary link between fans and their teams. His influence extended to other broadcasters, including Jerry Allen, the current play-by-play voice for the Oregon Ducks, who credited Aune with teaching him how to do play-by-play. Aune's career highlights the significant role local sports broadcasters play in shaping the fan experience and preserving the oral history of athletic programs. His ability to connect with listeners through his unique style created a lasting legacy that resonated deeply within the Oregon sports community. The tributes from his successor and other sports figures underscore the profound impact he had on the broadcasting landscape and the emotional connection he fostered with the audience.
What's Next?
The legacy of Darrell Aune will likely continue to be celebrated within the Oregon State athletic community and among sports broadcasting enthusiasts. His memorable calls and contributions to sports radio will likely be revisited and shared, particularly during significant historical moments for the Beavers. Educational institutions and sports media programs may reference his career as an example of impactful sports broadcasting. The sports talk shows and media outlets that honored him upon his passing will likely continue to acknowledge his influence on the industry. While Aune's direct involvement in broadcasting has concluded, his impact on the style and approach of sports commentary in the region is expected to endure, influencing future generations of broadcasters who seek to connect with their audience on a personal and memorable level.
Beyond the Headlines
Darrell Aune's career transcends mere sports commentary, touching upon the cultural significance of local radio and its role in community building. In an era before widespread television coverage of every game, radio announcers like Aune served as the primary storytellers, painting vivid pictures for listeners and fostering a deep sense of connection to their teams. His use of catchphrases and engaging delivery created a unique identity for Oregon State athletics on the airwaves, turning games into shared communal experiences. This highlights the broader impact of local media personalities in shaping regional identity and collective memory. Aune's ability to connect with fans, even those who were not physically present at games, underscores the power of voice and narrative in creating lasting emotional bonds between a team and its supporters. His story is a testament to the enduring power of radio as a medium for community engagement and the profound influence of individuals who master its craft.
