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Bob Uecker, Legendary Baseball Broadcaster, Dies at 90

 January 18, 2025

Bob Uecker, the beloved voice of the Milwaukee Brewers and a national sports icon, passed away on Thursday at the age of 90.

Uecker, who was a cherished figure in both the Milwaukee and national baseball communities, had battled small-cell lung cancer since 2023, as Fox News reports.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Uecker’s journey to fame began early in life. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1954 and played baseball during his time at Fort Leonard Wood and Fort Belvoir. His professional career took off when he joined the Milwaukee Braves organization in 1956. Uecker played in the minor leagues before earning a call-up to the majors in 1962.

In his rookie season, Uecker played 33 games and hit .250, with two doubles and one home run. His brief playing career also included stints with the St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, and Atlanta Braves. Uecker was part of the Cardinals’ 1964 World Series-winning team, earning a World Series ring as part of the championship squad.

After retiring from playing in 1967, Uecker shifted to broadcasting, joining the Milwaukee Brewers in 1971. His unique style and easygoing charm quickly endeared him to fans. He became the voice of the Brewers, calling their games for an impressive 54 seasons.

Uecker's Iconic Legacy as a Broadcaster and Actor

Beyond his role with the Brewers, Uecker’s voice graced national broadcasts as well. He worked for both ABC and NBC during World Series and League Championship Games. In 1982, Uecker called the Brewers’ heartbreaking World Series loss to the St. Louis Cardinals for a local Milwaukee station.

Uecker’s influence on the baseball world extended far beyond the booth. He made a memorable appearance in the 1989 film Major League and its two sequels, where his humor and wit became synonymous with the sport. Uecker’s portrayal of a former baseball player turned announcer remains one of the most beloved roles in sports film history.

In addition to his movie career, Uecker appeared in several television shows. He made numerous guest appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and even hosted Saturday Night Live in 1984. His comedic timing and larger-than-life personality made him a favorite of fans everywhere.

Health Struggles and Reduced Schedule

Despite his extensive career, Uecker’s later years were marked by health issues that forced him to reduce his broadcasting schedule in 2014. In 2021, Uecker signed his first health insurance contract with the Brewers after losing coverage from the Screen Actors Guild. This move reflected his deep connection to the Brewers organization, which had supported him through his long career.

In 2023, Uecker’s family revealed that he had been privately battling small-cell lung cancer. While his health struggles were kept out of the public eye, the news of his passing has left fans and the Brewers community in shock and mourning.

A Family and Community Loss

The Milwaukee Brewers released a statement expressing the deep impact Uecker had on their organization and the city of Milwaukee. "Ueck was the light of the Brewers, the soundtrack of our summers, the laughter in our hearts, and his passing is a profound loss," the statement read. The Brewers also described him as the "heart and soul of Wisconsin," and a "dear friend" to many.

"While his contributions to the game are noteworthy, it is his kindness, humility, and love for family and friends that we will hold closest to our hearts," said Uecker’s family in a heartfelt statement. His family also shared how much they appreciated the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.

Honors and Tributes

Uecker’s legacy was cemented when he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2011. His career had earned him numerous awards, including the Wisconsin Sportscaster of the Year five times. Known affectionately as "Mr. Baseball," Uecker’s contributions to the sport of baseball will forever be remembered by fans across the country.

The Brewers' organization reflected on the impact Uecker had, stating, "Saying goodbye to Bob shakes us all. He was so much more than a Milwaukee Brewers icon. He was a national treasure. Bob entertained us with his words and storytelling, so it is no surprise that his passing now leaves us at a loss for our own words."

Uecker’s Lasting Impact on Milwaukee and Baseball

Uecker’s influence extended far beyond baseball. His voice became a key part of Milwaukee summers, and his wit and charm were as much a part of the city’s identity as the Brewers themselves. Fans will forever associate Uecker with the thrill of baseball, the crack of the bat, and the joy of the game.

In his final years, Uecker had acknowledged the difficulty of stepping back from the game he loved. In a 2021 interview with MLB.com, he shared, "It’s amazing how you take everything for granted. Being down there on the field, shooting the bull. Then when you can’t do it, it’s bad. You really lose that."

A Farewell to a Legend

As the Brewers, his family, and his fans come to terms with Uecker’s passing, they take comfort in the joy and laughter he brought to so many throughout his life. His presence will be missed, but his impact will never fade. The legacy of "Mr. Baseball" will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to listen to him.

While Uecker's voice may no longer be heard on the Brewers' broadcasts, his influence will continue to echo through the team and the city of Milwaukee. As the Brewers move forward, they carry with them the lessons, joy, and warmth Uecker brought to the game and to life.