Andy Musser, a sports announcer for 45 years and a Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster for a quarter-century, has died. He was 74.

Musser's son, Allan, of Roswell, Ga., said his father died Sunday evening at his home in Wynnewood in suburban Philadelphia.

Musser retired in 2001 after 25 years with the Phillies, working throughout his tenure beside Harry Kalas.

"Andy was a dear friend to many, an absolute gentleman, and a true professional," said Phillies President David Montgomery.

Musser missed only two games for health reasons when laryngitis kept him out of the broadcast booth. He also covered the World Series, Eagles and 76ers games, and Big Five basketball.

Musser is also survived by his wife of 50 years, Eun Joo, and his daughter, Luanne Zimmerman of Lower Gwynedd, Pa.