Bob Uecker, the legendary voice of the Brewers who died Thursday at the age of 90, was battling cancer in what was a previously undisclosed illness.
Uecker’s family revealed the news in a statement released through the Brewers.
“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,” the family’s statement said.
“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.”
Uecker called Brewers games on the radio for 54 years and became a household name through his numerous appearances with Johnny Carson — who gave Uecker his “Mr. Baseball” nickname — his role as announcer Harry Doyle in the “Major League” movies, his role in “Mr. Belvedere” and his Miller Lite commercials.
“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 Brewers said in a statement. “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.
“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 played six years in the majors as a catcher, playing his first two years with his hometown Milwaukee Braves before winning a World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1964. He later played for the Philadelphia Phillies and rejoined the Braves in Atlanta in 1967.