Bob Uecker’s Family Honors Beloved Broadcaster as Brewers Reach First World Series in 44 Years
MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee Brewers have punched their ticket to the World Series for the first time in 44 years, a milestone accompanied by a profound wave of remembrance for the late, legendary broadcaster Bob Uecker.
Uecker, whose distinctive voice and self-deprecating humor defined the franchise for over half a century, passed away on January 16, 2025. While his absence is deeply felt by his family, the team, and the city, his relatives shared a statement on Wednesday expressing how vividly his spirit remains tied to the historic playoff run.
“We are filled with elation and pride, but also longing. A wish that Bob was here to see it, too,” the Uecker family said in their statement. “While we could never speak for him, this is certain: Milwaukee, the Brewers, and the fans meant everything to Bob. Wherever we gather — in a packed stadium, a neighborhood bar, or a living room with the radio turned all the way up — we know he’s right here cheering alongside us.”
The franchise is scheduled to host Game 1 of the World Series on Friday against the Tampa Bay Rays. This marks Milwaukee’s first appearance in the Fall Classic since 1982, when the club fell to the St. Louis Cardinals while representing the American League.
The family also addressed the current roster, praising the team’s resilience and camaraderie on their path to the championship series.
“To the players — You believed in each other and the power of friendship,” the statement read. “You carried the city with you every time you took the field, making memories that will last a lifetime. Bob would have been so incredibly proud of what you’ve accomplished.”
Uecker’s presence was invoked immediately after the Brewers clinched their World Series berth last week following a National League Championship Series sweep of the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers. Amid the on-field celebration, manager Pat Murphy paused to honor the team’s longtime voice.
“He’d be so happy for the guys,” Murphy said of Uecker. “Those who knew him well are all thinking about Ueck today.”
Before cementing his legendary status behind the microphone, Uecker played six major league seasons between 1962 and 1967, appearing in 297 games and batting .200 for the Milwaukee Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and St. Louis Cardinals. Beyond his playing career, his cultural footprint expanded through frequent, humorous appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and his memorable role in the “Major League” film franchise.
Uecker went on to call Brewers games for 54 seasons, earning the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award from the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003.
