CTV says the man who once helped lead the network's sports coverage has died.

The company says renowned sportscaster Johnny Esaw died Saturday in Toronto after suffering from respiratory problems. He was 87.

Born in North Battleford, Sask., Esaw started his radio career in his home province before moving east.

He made the switch to TV in the 1960s, becoming sports director for CTV's Toronto station.

He rose through the ranks until landing the role of vice-president of CTV Sports in 1974, a job he held for 16 years before he retired.

He was inducted into the Order of Canada in 2004 and belongs to Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, which describes him as "a pioneer, an innovator, and a fervent supporter of our nation's sporting achievements."