Jack Buck was one of the most iconic voices in American sports broadcasting, covering baseball, football, and other events for nearly 50 years. He was best known as the voice of the St. Louis Cardinals, but he also called some of the most memorable moments in sports history, such as Kirk Gibson’s home run in the 1988 World Series, Joe Montana’s touchdown pass to Dwight Clark in the 1982 NFC Championship Game, and Mark McGwire’s 62nd home run in 1998. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the Radio Hall of Fame, and he was the father of another famous sportscaster, Joe Buck.
But what was Jack Buck’s cause of death? How did he pass away, and what impact did he have on the sports world and beyond?
Jack Buck’s Health Problems and Death
Jack Buck was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1998, and underwent surgery to remove part of his left lung. He continued to work as a broadcaster, but his health deteriorated over the next few years. He suffered from various infections, kidney stones, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes. He was hospitalized several times, and had to use a wheelchair and a respirator. He also lost his voice, and could only communicate through a device that amplified his whispers.
On June 18, 2002, Jack Buck died at the age of 77 in St. Louis, Missouri. He was surrounded by his family, including his second wife Carole and his eight children. He was buried at the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, with a microphone and a baseball placed in his casket.
According to ESPN.com, Jack Buck’s death was mourned by millions of fans, players, coaches, and colleagues, who remembered him as a professional, a gentleman, and a friend. He received tributes from former presidents, sports commissioners, and celebrities. His funeral was broadcast live on radio and television, and thousands of people attended his public memorial service at Busch Stadium, where his son Joe delivered a touching eulogy.
Jack Buck’s Life and Career
Jack Buck was born on August 21, 1924, in Holyoke, Massachusetts. He grew up listening to radio broadcasts of baseball games, and dreamed of becoming a sportscaster. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and was wounded in Germany, earning a Purple Heart. He enrolled at Ohio State University after the war, and began his broadcasting career at the campus radio station.
He worked as a minor league baseball announcer for several teams, before landing a job with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1954. He partnered with Harry Caray, another Hall of Fame broadcaster, and became a fan favorite with his smooth and witty style. He also worked for CBS and NBC, covering various sports events, such as the World Series, the Super Bowl, the Olympics, and the Masters. He was known for his signature phrases, such as “That’s a winner!” and “We’ll see you tomorrow night!”
Jack Buck was also involved in many charitable and civic causes, such as the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the USO, and the St. Louis Zoo. He was awarded the Ford C. Frick Award, the Pete Rozelle Award, the National Radio Hall of Fame Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He also wrote several books, including his autobiography, That’s a Winner.
Jack Buck was a legend in sports broadcasting, and a beloved figure in St. Louis and beyond. His voice and his personality will always be remembered by generations of sports fans.
