Reaction pours in following passing of beloved baseball broadcaster Bob Uecker

CBS 58

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The passing of baseball legend Bob Uecker has many reacting far and wide. 

The team announced Uecker died Thursday morning, Jan. 16, calling it "one of the most difficult days in Milwaukee Brewers history." In a statement released by the club, Uecker’s family said he had battled small cell lung cancer since early 2023.

Statement from The Milwaukee Brewers

“Today, we take on the heaviest of burdens. Today, we say goodbye to our beloved friend, Bob Uecker.

“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.

“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.”

Statement from Commissioner Emeritus of Major League Baseball and former Brewers Owner, Allan H. “Bud” Selig

“I am heartbroken with the loss of my dear lifelong friend, Bob Uecker. I can’t begin to describe how much he meant to me, let alone what this loss is for Brewers fans, the state of Wisconsin and countless others worldwide.

“Bob had the easiest way of making others feel at ease, share a laugh and always left people feeling a little better. Nobody was his equal.

“I am so grateful that Bob’s friendship was a constant presence throughout most of my life. For over fifty years, rarely did a day pass where we missed a conversation, a sharing of stories, and countless laughs. That cannot be replaced and is a giant loss, but I am lucky to have experienced that kind of enduring friendship.

“Sue and I are thinking of Judy, Bob’s children Sue Ann and Bob Jr., and all of Bob’s family during what is a difficult time for all of us.”

Statement from the Uecker family

“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.”

Reaction from MLB Commissioner Robert Manfred

Major League Baseball

Reaction from former Brewers pitcher Brent Suter

Reaction from former Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy

Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame

“Bob Uecker was a national and local treasure that we are lucky to have as a member of the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame,” said Brian Lammi, president of the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame. “His role as voice of the Milwaukee Brewers is something that fans were able to look forward to and enjoy for decades. His stories were legendary and part of many of our afternoons listening to Brewers games on the radio. He was also someone who was known nationally for what he did both on the air and in the community. Our deepest condolences to his family and the entire Brewers organization.”

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Statement from the Chicago Cubs

Statement from the Cleveland Guardians

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers

“I am saddened to hear of the passing of one of Wisconsin’s own, Mr. Baseball himself, the great Bob Uecker. For more than 50 years, Bob brought the magic of the ballpark to life for so many, and I am sure I speak for Brewers fans everywhere when I say we gladly would have had him for 50 more.

“He wasn’t just a comedian and a great announcer—Bob was a man of character and integrity. Throughout his career, he made countless contributions to the history and culture of Major League Baseball, and he was active in giving back to our communities and our state. Boy, we’re going to miss him.

“He was beloved, not just in Wisconsin but across the country. He was a giant, and I—like so many other lifelong Brewers fans—will miss hearing his enthusiasm and love for the game and our Brewers on the airwaves. It’s a sad day. Kathy and I are thinking of his family, friends, the Brew Crew, and all those who knew and loved Ueck. He will always be remembered.”

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley

ESPN

Reaction from former actress Tracy Wells, one of Uecker's costars on "Mr. Belvedere"

Wisconsin Historical Society

Reaction from actor Adam Sandler"

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