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Post by TTX on Aug 13, 2024 10:51:10 GMT -5
There's a name I haven't heard in years. RIP.
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Post by jimsteel on Aug 14, 2024 11:47:26 GMT -5
Bill Deegan, a former MLB umpire, passed away on March 24th at the age of 89. The following is an excerpt from Deegan's online obituary: "He was born in Camden, New Jersey to parents Robert and Rose Deegan. Bill graduated from high school and joined the Air Force, where he served his country honorably until 1966. He worked as a Major League Baseball umpire where he worked in the American League from 1971 to 1980 and for six more games during the 1995 season. Bill retired in 2016 as a School Bus Driver for special needs children. His umpiring career began in the Midwest League in 1967. He also worked in the Carolina and Southern Leagues prior to becoming a major league umpire in 1971. In the majors, he officiated in four American League Championship Series: 1970 (Game One only), 1974, 1977 and 1984. He also umpired in the 1978 All-Star Game and the 1976 World Series; he was the home plate umpire for Game Four of the Series, which the defending champion Cincinnati Reds won on the strength of Johnny Bench's two-home run and five-RBI performance to complete a sweep of the New York Yankees. In that game, first base umpire Bruce Froemming ejected Yankees manager Billy Martin after Martin threw a baseball at Deegan. Deegan was the home plate umpire for two no-hitters in May 1977: Jim Colborn's on May 14 and Dennis Eckersley's on May 30. He is one of a handful of umpires to have called balls and strikes for two no-hitters in the same season, and one of only three in modern history to do so in the same month, Dick Nallin (May, 1917) and Bill Dinneen (September, 1923) being the other two. Midway into the 1980 season, Deegan quit so that he could pursue other business opportunities.
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Post by jimsteel on Aug 14, 2024 11:49:23 GMT -5
Marvin Lewis Woodson, a former professional football safety known for his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints, passed away back on February 12, 2023, in Dallas, Texas. He was 81 years old. It should be noted that the usual reference sites had not shown Woodson's passing. Born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Marv’s athletic journey began at Rowan High School and continued at Indiana University, where he excelled as a standout player for the Hoosiers. His talent and dedication led to his selection in the 1964 NFL Draft, where he was picked in the first round by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Marv played six seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Steelers from 1964 to 1969, and briefly with the New Orleans Saints in 1969. Known for his defensive prowess, he earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1966 and recorded 18 interceptions over his career. His contributions on the field were marked by his tenacity, skill, and sportsmanship.He played on the following teams during his NFL career. Pittsburgh Steelers (1964–1969) New Orleans Saints (1969) Off the field, Marv was a beloved family man and a respected member of his community. He is remembered for his kindness, humility, and the positive impact he had on those around him. Marv’s legacy extends beyond his athletic achievements, as he touched the lives of many with his generosity and warmth.
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Post by jimsteel on Aug 15, 2024 7:30:30 GMT -5
Bob Chlupsa, a former pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, passed away peacefully at his home on July 17, 2024. Born and raised in Manhattan, New York, Bob’s athletic talents were evident from a young age. He graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School and went on to Manhattan College, where he excelled in both basketball and baseball. Ultimately, he chose to pursue a career in baseball, spending two memorable years with the St. Louis Cardinals. During his career in St. Louis, he pitched in 15 games and played in the minors from 1962-1973. Bob’s passion for sports continued throughout his life. He was an active member of the Garden City Casino and Tennis Club and dedicated many years to coaching Garden City Little League and CYO Basketball. His love for the game also saw him play softball and platform tennis well into his later years. Bob will be remembered not only for his athletic achievements but also for his dedication to his family and community. His kindness, mentorship, and unwavering support touched the lives of many. He leaves behind a legacy of love, sportsmanship, and community spirit.
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Post by jimsteel on Aug 15, 2024 15:51:20 GMT -5
Dan Dorazio, a legendary offensive line coach for the BC Lions, passed away on August 14, 2024. Known affectionately as the “Offensive Line Guru,” Dan’s coaching career spanned over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on both the NCAA and the CFL. Dan’s journey in football began in the U.S. college ranks, where he spent 26 years coaching at various programs, including Kent State, Hawaii, San Jose State, Washington, Northern Iowa, Boston University, Holy Cross, Georgia Tech, and Maryland. His expertise and passion for the game eventually led him north of the border, where he made a significant impact in the Canadian Football League. Dan’s CFL career included successful stints with the Calgary Stampeders, Saskatchewan Roughriders, Toronto Argonauts and, most notably, the BC Lions. During his time with the Lions, Dan’s coaching produced ten CFL All-Stars and 14 West Division All-Stars on the offensive line. His leadership helped the Lions secure Grey Cup victories in 2006 and 2011, adding to his total of four Grey Cup rings.
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Post by jimsteel on Aug 15, 2024 15:53:13 GMT -5
Larry Walton, a former NFL Wide receiver, passed away back on July 4th 2024 at the age of 77. The following is an excerpt from Mr. Walton's online obituary: "Larry Walton was a proud graduate of Arizona State University, where he excelled in football as a wide receiver and ran track. His athletic prowess led him to a nearly 10-year career in the National Football League, playing for the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills. He had a passion for all things sports and loved recounting stories of his youth and time with his teammates in college and the National Football League. Larry was known for his love of Motown music, and his amazing voice often captivated those around him. He had a particular fondness for fast sports cars, Formula 1 racing and was a skilled golfer, enjoying rounds with his son, Brian, former teammates, and at charity events, always supporting those in need. He was the life of the party, always full of energy and joy, and adored by all who knew him." During his NFL career, he played in 107 games and started in 79 of those contests. He also recorded 2689 receiving yards and 27 touchdowns.
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Post by jimsteel on Aug 16, 2024 12:07:26 GMT -5
Dirt track racing star Scott Bloomquist has died after a plane crash. Bloomquist, 60, was inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2002.
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Post by TTX on Aug 16, 2024 12:14:39 GMT -5
RIP Scott.
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Post by jimsteel on Aug 16, 2024 18:34:08 GMT -5
Teddy Bailey, a former running back in the old AFL, passed away on December 23rd 2021 at the age of 77. This had not been reported per official reference sites. Bailey played college football at the University of Cincinnati. After college, he signed with the Buffalo Bills in 1967 where he played in one game. He was then able to catch on with the Boston Patriots in 1969. With Boston, he played in 2 contests.
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Post by jimsteel on Aug 16, 2024 19:38:28 GMT -5
Gilles Leger, a former Canadian ice hockey coach, scout, and executive, passed away on August 6th at the age of 83. Although a talented Canadian football player, Leger chose to dedicate his life to hockey. From 1967 to 1972, he coached the St. Francis Xavier University squad before he was hired as an assistant coach with the Ottawa Nationals. He had brief head coaching stints with the Toronto Toros and the Birmingham Bulls, and then moved on to serve as general manager of the latter club. Following his coaching roles, Leger held a series of front-office jobs. From 1979 until 1983, he was the director of player development for the Quebec Nordiques. He then became president of the Fredericton Express and Halifax Citadels American Hockey League teams and the QMJHL Quebec Remparts. He later served as a scout for several NHL clubs, including the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers.
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