CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert and his family released a statement following the unexpected death of TV play-by-play man Fred McLeod, saying they will “miss him tremendously.”

“Fred McLeod was truly a one-of-a-kind person and friend,” the Gilbert family wrote in a heartfelt statement released by the Cavaliers on Wednesday. “Words cannot express our feelings as we think about the many special memories we have of Fred and a relationship that spans four decades. We will miss him tremendously. Fred was not only a great broadcaster and communicator that informed, explained and entertained, but he passionately embodied the Cavaliers ‘All for One, One for All’ DNA in every aspect of his life.”

McLeod, who was set to enter his 14th consecutive season -- and 15th overall -- as the voice of the Cavaliers on Fox Sports Ohio, passed away Monday evening. He was 67.

On Tuesday, after the news was made official, members of the Cavs family, past and present, expressed their condolences and shared their memories, many of which were echoed by the Gilbert family one day later.

“He had the gift of connecting with everyone he interacted with and leaving them feeling happier, stronger, more positive, and valued,” the Gilberts said. “Fred has left an impactful, lasting legacy in Cleveland, Detroit and beyond. Our family extends our deepest and warmest sympathies to Fred’s entire family, including his wonderful wife Beth, mother Marilyn, sister Lynn, and his three children, Sean, Jenna, Molly and each of their families.”

Gilbert became majority owner of the Cavs in March 2005. He hired McLeod shortly after, tabbing him as the new TV announcer because of his charismatic and energetic approach.

Gilbert continues to recover at home in Detroit after a stroke suffered nearly four months ago. Following his procedure, Gilbert spent about eight weeks in a Chicago rehabilitation facility. There is no further update on his condition at this time.

More on the passing of Fred McLeod

TV voice of the Cavaliers dies at 67

LeBron, Love and Cavaliers current and past remember McLeod

Remembering Fred McLeod: A Cavaliers legend, die-hard fan, timeless broadcaster

Condolences on McLeod's passing from around the NBA

Remembering some of Fred McLeod’s best Cavaliers calls

Fred loved Cleveland: Terry Pluto