Bob Uecker, the beloved figure in baseball known as “Mr. Baseball,” passed away on January 16, 2025, at the age of 90.
The announcement was made by his family, stating that he had been battling small-cell lung cancer since early in 2023.
"It is his kindness, humility, and love for family and friends that we will hold closest to our hearts"
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) January 16, 2025
– The Uecker Family pic.twitter.com/lggU2BdOSw
His team, the Milwaukee Brewers, for whom he had worked for over 54 seasons, announced their sadness in an emotional message,
“We are heartbroken to announce that Brewers icon & Baseball Hall of Famer Bob Uecker passed away today at the age of 90.”
Via Twitter
Our statement on the passing of Bob Uecker: pic.twitter.com/OGbzM8QL11
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) January 16, 2025
Bob Uecker From Milwaukee Braves To Thriving Broadcaster And Entertainer
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on January 26, 1934, Uecker began his baseball career with the Milwaukee Braves in 1956.
He went on to play in the majors in 1962 and stayed there through 1967, playing as a catcher mostly for the St. Louis Cardinals and Philadelphia Phillies.
His career batting average was only 200, but he won a World Series with the Cardinals in 1964.
However, it was his broadcasting career for which he gained most of his fame.
In 1971, he joined the Brewers’ radio team and instantly became a trusted and beloved voice in baseball.
His signature catchphrase, “Get up! Get up! Get outta here! Gone!” became the signature for each home run made by the Brewers.
Uecker’s knack for humor and stories engaged audiences for multiple decades, making him not just an announcer but an adorable figure in people’s lives.
Uecker’s presence spread far beyond baseball.
The man was also talented as an actor, with movie appearances in Major League and great guest spots on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.
His comic timing and self-deprecating humor helped him develop a tremendous appeal across generations.
Uecker received many awards throughout his career, including Wisconsin Sportscaster of the Year five times, induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame, and the Celebrity Wing of the WWE Hall of Fame.
His contributions to the game were recognized when his name was placed on the Brewers’ Wall of Honor in 2009.
Bob Uecker’s Personal Life Was Not Without Triumphs And Tragedies
He was married twice, his first wife being Joyce, who passed away in 2015.
Together, they had four children. Two predeceased him: Leeann and Steve.
Leeann died at the age of 66 of ALS in March 2022, and Steve died of complications of San Joaquin Valley Fever.
On his second marriage to Judy, he is survived by two children.
Uecker also faced massive health battles, including heart surgery in 2010, before eventually losing his battle against cancer.
Uecker’s passing has left a deep hit on fans and colleagues alike.
The Brewers organization stated that “his enthusiasm for life was always present,” even during his illness.
MKE 💙’s Ueck #ThankYouUeck pic.twitter.com/eIlRh6miV1
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) January 16, 2025
Fans have gathered outside American Family Field to pay tribute to him with flowers and memorabilia, remembering their deep affection for this iconic figure.
In summary, the legacy of Bob Uecker as a player, broadcaster, actor, and comedian will live forever in baseball and beyond.
His extraordinary ability to share with fans by bringing humor and stories has cemented his place as a national treasure.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Bob was the son of August “Gus” Uecker, a Swiss immigrant (1923), and Mary Schultz Uecker was from Michigan.
- Uecker joined the U.S. Army in 1954 and eventually rose to corporal.
- He had two younger sisters, Carol Ann and Rosemary.
