Corey Martin, the son of Sabres legend Rick Martin, knew his dad was a public figure. It was obvious whenever they'd be out and people would stop by to say hello or reminisce.
Corey got a good look at much Buffalo really appreciated his father when he died suddenly March 13. Many of the folks who sent their condolences gave Corey a standing ovation today following his speech in HSBC Arena during the Sabres' tribute to their former player.
The approximately 2,500 people who attended the memorial rose to their feet following Corey's glowing tribute to Martin.
"He went out doing what he loved," said Corey Martin, who recalled the high spirits his father was in just hours before his heart gave out. Rick Martin was pleased to talk about new owner Terry Pegula and was riding with his dog to visit friends when he died.
"There was that renewed sense of optimism from my father," Corey Martin said. "You could see that little gleam in his eye."
Corey Martin was one of eight speakers, in addition to program host Ed Kilgore, who paid tribute to the left winger on the French Connection. Below is the audio of the 70-minute memorial.
---John Vogl
