Greg Gumbel, Legendary Sports Broadcaster, Dies of Cancer at 78

Veteran sports broadcaster Greg Gumbel has died at the age of 78.

On Friday, Dec. 27, the renowned NFL broadcaster and March Madness host's death was confirmed in a statement shared with PEOPLE.

"It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel. He passed away peacefully surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer," the statement read.

"Greg approached his illness like one would expect he would, with stoicism, grace, and positivity," the statement from his wife Marcy and daughter Michelle continued. "He leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration and dedication to over 50 extraordinary years in the sports broadcast industry; and his iconic voice will never be forgotten."

Gumbel served as a play-by-play announcer and studio host for CBS Sports after spending time at NBC Sports, where he covered many Super Bowls and Olympic Games.

"The CBS Sports family is devastated by the passing of Greg Gumbel. There has never been a finer gentleman in all of television. He was beloved and respected by those of us who had the honor to call him a friend and colleague," said David Berson, the president & CEO of CBS Sports.

"A tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time. He was a familiar and welcoming voice for fans across many sports, including the NFL and March Madness, highlighted by the Super Bowl and Final Four," Berson added.

"Greg broke barriers and set the standard for others to follow. It is an extremely sad day for all of us at CBS Sports and the entire sports community. We will miss Greg dearly, and send our deepest condolences to his wife Marcy, daughter Michelle, and his entire family."

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Emmy-winning producer Dan Forer also remembered the late broadcaster in a statement on social media.

"Greg was the best announcer a young producer/director could have because he was extremely inclusive and never ever lost his cool — except for the time we were shooting a Super Bowl Anti-Drug PSA in the South Bronx at 2am and live gunfire erupted," Forer's post continued. "That was the only occasion Greg raised his voice and had a few choice words for me; which I deserved."

Forer completed his statement by remembering Gumbel as a "true professional," who was a "kind, magnificent man."

Greg Gumbel was the older brother to broadcaster Bryant Gumbel, 76.

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