On one of the biggest sports days of the year, Michigan is mourning the loss of one of its treasures, Frank Beckmann.

A heralded broadcaster who served as the voice of Michigan Wolverines football for 33 years, 72-year old Frank Beckmann died Saturday. Beckmann suffered from vascular dementia and had several strokes recently.

Beckmann also had stints calling games for the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers.

Frank Carl Beckmann grew up in Detroit and Warren, graduating from Warren Cousino High School, and began his more than 50-year broadcasting career in 1969.

He was named Michigan Sportscaster of the Year three times and inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.

He is survived by his wife, Karen, their two children and three grandchildren.