Yesterday Ernie Harwell, the long time broadcaster for the Detroit Tigers, died.

This morning I cried.

Mr. Harwell’s passing has been strangely personal for me these last few hours as his death coincided with my remembrance of my grandfather’s birthday.  Many summers were spent in my grandfather’s backyard, with Ernie’s voice coming through the tiny little speakers of a small AM radio.  Through those moments with my grandfather, of which Ernie is forever linked, I grew to love baseball and the Tigers specifically.

I was fortunate enough to meet Mr. Harwell years ago when I worked for the Lansing Lugnuts.  We were holding our first Lugnut Charities gala and Ernie was our featured Guest of Honor.  I can’t even begin to tell you how excited I was to shake his hand and, for the brief minute I had, to let him know how much I appreciated his work.  I am not an “autograph” guy, but I have his and it has been and will always be something that I cherish.

My story is not unique.  Everyone has there own Ernie story.  Each special in there own right and every one affirming not only that he was tremendous talent but what a gracious, generous and kind person he was as well. Allow me to direct you to the very personal and touching piece my friend Larry Lage wrote for USA Today.

Also I would like to share this video of Mr. Harwell’s farewell address to the fans last fall. Thank you DJ for sending.

Rest in peace Ernie.