Former Chicago Cub and Announcer Ron Santo Has Died

Sad, Sad news. After battling bladder cancer and a host of other health issues, legendary baseball player, and announcer Ron Santo has died at the age of 70. The Chicago Tribune did a wonderful write up of his life and career you should check out here.

As a life-long Cubs fan, this is especially sad news, because we all know Ron was, next to Ernie Banks, the face of the Cubs. He was a fan of his team, and it showed in his often colorful commentary on WGN. Not only that, but he was a really great guy. I had the pleasure of meeting him twice in my life. Once, at his restaurant in Schaumburg, a favorite hangout of my friends and I on Friday nights in High School, and again at a charity event in 1999. And even though I was just a slave, I mean internwith the charity, he took the time to talk to me about the Cubs, called me "Stumble" because I was having a clumsy day trying to work in an evening gown, and was a really great guy.

I hope the Hall of Fame feels like a bunch of jerks this morning. An 'All-Star' several times over, it was always shocking and a little heartbreaking that he would miss the vote into the Hall of Fame every year. And it was always something ridiculous like by 11 votes or something. Watch him get in now. Of course, that's how this always goes.

So RIP Ron. You were an example of how professional athletes should be past, present and future.

Do you guys have any fond memories of Mr. Santo?