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Radio voice of Milwaukee Braves dead at 81 .c The Associated Press 12/12/03 18:32 EST MILWAUKEE (AP) - Earl Gillespie, the radio voice of the Milwaukee Braves in the team's championship seasons in the 1950s, died Friday at 81. Gillespie, who became known for his ``holy cow'' exclamation when one of the Braves hit a home run or made a big play, had his family at his side when he died of respiratory failure at a suburban West Allis hospital. He had suffered a stroke several months ago. A Chicago native, Gillespie became the radio voice of the Braves after the team moved to Milwaukee in 1953 and continued for 11 years - including the World Series seasons of 1957 and 1958. Gillespie also did radio and television commentary for the Green Bay Packers, Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin over his broadcasting career. He worked at WITI-TV in Milwaukee from 1963 until his retirement in 1985. An eight-time winner of the ``Wisconsin Sportscaster Of the Year Award,'' he was inducted into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001. ``We're saddened by his passing,'' WITI-TV general manager Chuck Steinmetz said. ``We join his many fans and friends in remembering his legendary career as the `Voice of the Braves' and his colorful career as sports director for WITI-TV.'' Survivors include his wife, Betty, and four children. Funeral arrangements were pending. |
Gillespie, Earl W., Jr.Publication Date: December 14, 2003Entered eternal life on Dec. 12, 2003 at the age of 81. Resident of Naples, FL. Former long-time resident of Mequon. Beloved husband of Bettye Gillespie and of the late Margery Gillespie (nee Boland). Loving father of Mary Kay (Thomas) Hayes, John W. (Trish) Gillespie, Trish (Joseph) Duffey, Margie B. (Jim) Potter and of the late Michael Gillespie. Step-father of Rick (Ginny) Pease, Sherry (Tom) Stecker and Nancy (John) Guy. Proud grandfather of Courtney Anne, Hogan, Myles and Drew Hayes, Meghan, John, Doug, Taylor and Blake Gillespie, Michael, Erin and Matt Duffey and Danny, Charlie and Gracie Potter. Step-grandfather of Jane, Ryan, Dan, Jamie, Jodi, Scott, Jenna, Andrew and Brian. Great-grandfather of Molly and Emily. Step-great-grandfather of Breonne and Isaiah. Dear brother of Gordon (Joan) Gillespie. Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.Earl was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and sportscaster. He had a true enthusiasm for the world of sports and shared that enthusiasm with all. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Visitation will be held on Tue., Dec. 16, 2003 from 3-8PM at the Funeral Home and thereafter Wednesday at St. Robert Church from 10:30-11:15AM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wed., Dec. 17, 2003 at 11:30AM at ST. ROBERT CATHOLIC CHURCH, corner of E. Capitol Dr. and N. Farwell Ave. Prayer service Tuesday 5PM at the Funeral Home. Interment Resurrection Cemetery in Mequon. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Earl's name to St. Coletta's (in Jefferson), the MACC Fund or the Lombardi Cancer Foundation would be appreciated. MAX A. SASS & SONS Greenridge Chapel 4747 S. 60th St. 414-282-4050 |