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Here’s To Ya, Ernie Harwell
As has been widely reported, legendary Detroit Tigers’ broadcaster Ernie Harwell has incurable cancer.
Listen to Mr. Harwell’s discussion with the Detroit Free Press about his battle with cancer and watch some moving photos at the Detroit Tiger’s Weblog. The man truly has an indomitable spirit and at 91, has lived “the life.”
I think of Ernie Harwell as one of THE legendary voices of the game along with Red Barber, Mel Allen, Curt Gowdy, Jack Buck (my icon growing up), Harry Caray, Harry Kalas and Vin Sculley. And I’m sure there are many I’m leaving out. Would love to hear your favorites in the comments.
It’s been a tough year for baseball icons. Read our previous posts on the passing of Mark Fydrich and the aforementioned Mr. Kalas.
September 4th, 2009 at 8:02 am
Very sad news when I read about it this morning. Ernie Harwell was/is the voice of the Tigers. I have great memories listening to Harwell call games on the radio for Detroit. One of the cooler events was Ernie Harwell weekend at Comerica Park a few years back…I had tickets for all 3-games of the festivities and saw the unveiling of his statue at the main entrance, got some Ernie bobbleheads, and on the final day Ernie himself was signing autographs. My wife & I waited in line and talked to Ernie for a few minutes, got his book signed, and took a few photos…great guy and all my best go out to Ernie & his wife Lulu. Keep fighting the good fight Ernie, you will always be the voice of the Tigers to me!
September 4th, 2009 at 9:01 am
I feel really sad about this, Ernie has left a lasting legacy to baseball. Sometimes announcers mean more than players to the game.
September 4th, 2009 at 9:11 am
@Yankee Lover - that’s a great point about announcers meaning more than players. I think that’s in part due to their longevity compared to players. A broadcaster can work into their 80s, while a player has to hang ‘em up in their early 40s.
Generations of fans see/hear these immortal broadcasters ply their craft, but the greatest players of a franchise aren’t seen for more than ~20 years.