Legendary ESPN anchor John Saunders has died at the age of 61, the sports network confirmed Wednesday.

"John was an extraordinary talent and his friendly, informative style has been a warm welcome to sports fans for decades," John Skipper, president of EPSN, said in a statement. "His wide range of accomplishments across numerous sports and championship events is among the most impressive this industry has ever seen."

"More importantly," Skipper added, "John was a beloved and devoted family man who cared deeply about people and causes, as evidenced by his long-standing efforts as a passionate board member for The V Foundation for Cancer Research."

Saunders' cause of death was not immediately clear.

It was just months ago, however, that ESPN signed Saunders to a multi-year contract extension.

Saunders, who was a native Canadian, joined ESPN in January 1986. Before that, he worked for WMAR-TV in Baltimore.

Saunders leaves behind his wife, Wanda, and two daughters, Aleah and Jenna.

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