The only time I’ve ever made it to KC was for a conference that was held the week Buck died. I got the newspaper in the hotel and still remember reading this obit. I tore it out and brought it home. I had a tour scheduled at the Negro League HOF that week that of course was cancelled for the events honoring Buck. Bought a few books instead and when I eventually make it back to KC, it will be all the more special. Thanks.
While working in the Royals Hall of Fame for the past 8 years, I have witnessed many Baseball fans take their photos with Buck O'Neil's statue. All generations and all nationalities, representing teams from all over America. They share their own memories of this outstanding gentleman who just happened to be a magnificent Baseball Player, too.
As with many families, talking sports was the communication between my dad, my brothers and myself. Growing up in Kansas City, we were KC A's and then Royals fans. In the early 90s, we made a pact to go to Cooperstown for George Brett's HOF induction. The highlight of the trip for my dad was meeting Buck. He saw Buck play when he was a kid growing up, saw the Monarchs, Blues, A's and Royals. Buck treated him like an old friend, it was joyous. The autographed ball from Buck is one of my dad's favorite possessions.
I always feel in awe and grateful when I have the opportunity to meet or be in the presence of people I admire. From astronauts, college or professional athletes, teachers, or friends of a friend, they all have done something that makes me want to shut up and just soak in the moment. What an honor it would have been to even have a small moment with Buck. Your writing will be the closest I will ever get. Thank you!
Don Fortune did a great interview with Buck,. called Best of Buck. Years ago, it was available on CD. It's really just Don providing Buck an opportunity to share his stories. Buck's lack of bitterness is incredibly moving throughout. 50 minutes of pure love of life.
The way Joe writes about Buck makes me wish I'd met him. I saw him once, at a Brewers game. MLB was doing some sort of Negro Leagues celebration - possibly when the Museum opened in Kansas City and as part of that celebration, Buck was there. I was on the concourse, on my way to get a dog and a beer when a golf cart went whizzing by in the other direction. On that cart was a man wearing a deep purple suit. But that's not the biggest thing I remember about that brief moment. It was his smile. He was so happy to be doing what he was doing and living in that moment and his smile could have lit up the entire night sky. At that point in time, I had no idea who Buck O'Neil was, but when I saw pictures of him later, I couldn't help but notice that smile. Had I known, I most assuredly would have called his name, hoping against hope that he'd have that driver stop just so I could shake his hand. Maybe we'd have chatted about baseball a little and I'd have told him about our group and how much we loved to travel and watch baseball. If only.
Thanks again, Joe, for reminding us all just how special Buck O'Neil was.
The only time I’ve ever made it to KC was for a conference that was held the week Buck died. I got the newspaper in the hotel and still remember reading this obit. I tore it out and brought it home. I had a tour scheduled at the Negro League HOF that week that of course was cancelled for the events honoring Buck. Bought a few books instead and when I eventually make it back to KC, it will be all the more special. Thanks.
Beautiful writing! Haven’t read a more touching obituary yet.
While working in the Royals Hall of Fame for the past 8 years, I have witnessed many Baseball fans take their photos with Buck O'Neil's statue. All generations and all nationalities, representing teams from all over America. They share their own memories of this outstanding gentleman who just happened to be a magnificent Baseball Player, too.
Fifteen years later and I still can’t read this article through the tears it moves me to.
As with many families, talking sports was the communication between my dad, my brothers and myself. Growing up in Kansas City, we were KC A's and then Royals fans. In the early 90s, we made a pact to go to Cooperstown for George Brett's HOF induction. The highlight of the trip for my dad was meeting Buck. He saw Buck play when he was a kid growing up, saw the Monarchs, Blues, A's and Royals. Buck treated him like an old friend, it was joyous. The autographed ball from Buck is one of my dad's favorite possessions.
Thank you Joe!
And this is why I subscribed. Beautifully written piece.
I always feel in awe and grateful when I have the opportunity to meet or be in the presence of people I admire. From astronauts, college or professional athletes, teachers, or friends of a friend, they all have done something that makes me want to shut up and just soak in the moment. What an honor it would have been to even have a small moment with Buck. Your writing will be the closest I will ever get. Thank you!
A wonderful story, Joe, but note that you just opened the door to the Sportswriter 100....
Joe, you are the greatest!
Don Fortune did a great interview with Buck,. called Best of Buck. Years ago, it was available on CD. It's really just Don providing Buck an opportunity to share his stories. Buck's lack of bitterness is incredibly moving throughout. 50 minutes of pure love of life.
CD is still available from Negro Leagues Museum https://nlbm.com/product/the-best-of-buck/
Holy shit, Joe, this is amazing! This may be the most favorite thing of yours I've ever read!
The way Joe writes about Buck makes me wish I'd met him. I saw him once, at a Brewers game. MLB was doing some sort of Negro Leagues celebration - possibly when the Museum opened in Kansas City and as part of that celebration, Buck was there. I was on the concourse, on my way to get a dog and a beer when a golf cart went whizzing by in the other direction. On that cart was a man wearing a deep purple suit. But that's not the biggest thing I remember about that brief moment. It was his smile. He was so happy to be doing what he was doing and living in that moment and his smile could have lit up the entire night sky. At that point in time, I had no idea who Buck O'Neil was, but when I saw pictures of him later, I couldn't help but notice that smile. Had I known, I most assuredly would have called his name, hoping against hope that he'd have that driver stop just so I could shake his hand. Maybe we'd have chatted about baseball a little and I'd have told him about our group and how much we loved to travel and watch baseball. If only.
Thanks again, Joe, for reminding us all just how special Buck O'Neil was.
Beautiful, and it gets better and better with each reading. God bless you, Joe.
I say this every time I read this - If one person remembers me when I die as well as Joe remembers Buck, I will have lived a good life.
Amazing. Will take any re-prints or re-posts if they concern Buck. Can never have too many reminders of the tremendous life he led.
God rest Buck’s soul. Absolutely beautiful piece that I’ve read MANY times for pure enjoyment. Rest easy Mr. O’Neil