Bob Uecker, a legendary baseball broadcaster for the Milwaukee Brewers and former player, has died, the organization announced on Thursday. He was 90.
Uecker called games for the Brewers since 1971 and appeared in the 1989 movie “Major League” and the film’s two sequels.
“Ueck was the light of the Brewers, the soundtrack of our summers, the laughter in our hearts, and his passing is a profound loss. He was the heart and soul of Wisconsin and a dear friend. Bob loved people; his presence warmed every room and he had a way of welcoming all of us into his world as if we were lifelong friends,” the organization said in a statement.
“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.
“There is no describing the impact Ueck had on so many, and no words for how much he was loved. We are left with a giant void in our hearts, but also remember the laughter and joy he brought to our lives throughout the years.”
Uecker’s family said in a statement that the broadcaster had battled a private battle with small-cell lung cancer since 2023.
“He brought joy to countless listeners through his wit, charisma, and love for baseball, Milwaukee, and all of Wisconsin, creating a legacy that will forever be cherished,” Uecker’s family said. “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.
Reactions to the death of ‘Mr. Baseball,’ longtime Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker
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Items are left at the base of a statue of Bob Uecker outside American Family Field in Milwaukee, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Steve Megargee)
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Milwaukee Brewers radio announcer Bob Uecker tips his cap before a baseball game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Miami Marlins,, July 28, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Aaron Gash)
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Milwaukee Brewers’ owner Mark Attanasio and wife Debbie celebrate with broadcaster Bob Uecker after clinching the National League Central Division after a baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Sept. 26, 2023, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)
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Milwaukee Brewers’ owner Mark Attanasio and broadcaster Bob Uecker celebrate after clinching the National League Central Division after a baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)
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Bob Uecker throws the ceremonial first pitch before Game 1 of the National League wildcard baseball game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Arizona Diamondbacks Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)
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Items are left at the base of a statue of Bob Uecker outside American Family Field in Milwaukee, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Steve Megargee)
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Flowers lay near a statue of Bob Uecker outside American Family Field in Milwaukee on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Steve Megargee)Updated 7:37 PM CST, January 16, 2025Share
Reactions to the death of longtime Milwaukee Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker:
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“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Bob. To many, he was an announcer and entertainer whose humor and voice transcended the game, but to us he was so much more. Bob faced a private battle with small cell lung cancer since early 2023, which he met with the same strength and resilience that defined him. Even in the face of this challenge, his enthusiasm for life was always present, never allowing his spirit to falter. He brought joy to countless listeners through his wit, charisma, and love for baseball, Milwaukee, and all of Wisconsin, creating a legacy that will forever be cherished. 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. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time as we grieve and celebrate the man we were so lucky to call ours.” — The family of Bob Uecker
