WTimes Caps beat writer and Hockey Hall of Famer Dave Fay has passed away.

Obviously this is very sad news as the hockey world has lost one of its most dedicated and skilled scribes.

"He was one of the most beloved characters in our association," said Professional Hockey Writers Association president Kevin Allen. "He was the loveable curmudgeon, an old-school reporter who played the journalism game with his elbows up. He had a biting humor that has entertained his colleagues for many, many years. We have lost a hockey institution."

Indeed we have. And say, Dave, while you're up there, how about putting in a good word for the team you covered so diligently for so long?

Update: For more on Fay and what he meant to hockey in D.C., check out Vogs' tribute.