Longtime Chicago Blackhawks reporter dies at the age of 72

Perricone's influence goes beyond sports journalism. In 1989, he made a big life decision, leaving fast-paced pro hockey reporting to be a stay-at-home dad for his daughter, Jenny. His parenting experiences were shared in the heartfelt Sun-Times column "Jenny's Dad," giving readers a genuine look into a father's life in uncharted territories often dominated by mothers.

Moving from the hockey rink to home life showcased Perricone's straightforward storytelling. He openly shared the ups and downs of fatherhood, offering a unique viewpoint when fathers taking on primary caregiving roles were less common.

Beyond journalism, Perricone embraced diverse roles. After leaving the hockey beat, he spent a decade on the communications staff at Fermilab in Batavia. Unconfined by boundaries, Perricone ventured into writing books, including the 2009 release "The Big Bang," a captivating exploration of the early universe's history for young adults. In his final years, he was crafting a novel titled "Caged," delving into the struggles of a prep-school hockey player recovering from depression.

As the Blackhawks community recalls Perricone, they honor not just a fair and honest reporter but also a man who embraced change, leaving an indelible mark on sports journalism and beyond. Plans for a memorial are underway to pay tribute to the legacy of this remarkable individual who played a vital role in shaping the Chicago Blackhawks' narrative during a transformative era.