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George Scherger Obituary
Richard Scherger, Sr.
1920 - 2011
Mr. Scherger, 90, of Charlotte, died October 13, 2011 at his residence. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Monday, October 17th at Saint Gabriel's Catholic Church with Rev. Frank O'Rourke, Celebrant. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery.
Mr. Scherger was born November 10, 1920 in Dickinson, ND to the late John and Veronica Scherger. He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Mozelle Spainhour Scherger, and his brother, Joseph Scherger.
George was retired from a long and successful career in professional baseball. He first was an infielder in the Brooklyn Dodgers' minor league organization (1940-1956). He also spent three years in the U.S. Army during World War II. Scherger served as a player/manager in the last nine years of his playing career.
When Sparky Anderson was named manager of the Cincinnati Reds for the 1970 season, Scherger was hired as first base coach. During the 1970's, the Reds, commonly known as The Big Red Machine, won four National League pennants and two World Series titles (1975 and 1976). George, nicknamed "Sugar Bear", and Sparky were best friends from when Sparky broke into the Dodgers organization in 1953. After Anderson's dismissal from the Reds in 1978, Scherger was named manager of the Double-A Southern League's Nashville Sounds. In 1979, he managed the Sounds to win the SL championship. In 1981, Scherger took over as manager of the Triple-A Indianapolis Indians. In 1982, The Sporting News named Scherger Minor League Manager of the Year.
George returned to the Reds as a coach from 1982 to 1986. He was once described by Reds player/manager Pete Rose as the 'smartest baseball mind in the world.' George was eternally grateful to Sparky and Pete for their friendship, and the many opportunities and experiences he had in the major leagues. In addition to his love of baseball, George was also an avid fisherman.
Survivors include his daughter, Teresa S. Martin and her husband, Richard, of Mint Hill; sons, George R. Scherger, Jr. and wife, Jane, of Shelby, NC, Joseph J. Scherger and wife, Terri, of Charlotte, Daniel M. Scherger and wife, Marion, of Charlotte; and brothers, Leo Scherger and Donald Scherger, both of New York. Mr. Scherger is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
The family wishes to express its appreciation to the staffs of Hospice of Charlotte and Seniors Helping Seniors for the loving care and attention given to both George and the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Holy Angels, P.O. Box 710, Belmont, NC 28012, or to Hospice & Palliative Care, 1420 E. Seventh St., Charlotte, NC 28204.
Condolences may also be extended at www.harryandbryantfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for George Scherger
Mark Armour
February 9, 2012
Sincere condolences from a baseball historian and admirer of George's contributions to our great game. Can you tell me where George grew up and went to high school? Peace to all of you. [email protected]
Franklin Thompson
January 10, 2012
I played for George in 1968 with the Tampa Tarpons in the Florida State League. I played only two years in the minors but they were highlights in my life and George was a part of that.
Sincere Sympathies,
Franklin Thompson (Pitcher)
Shelly Andrens
January 9, 2012
Dear Joseph and the Scherger Family,
I have read all the wonderful things written about George and I couldn't be more in agreement with all the praise for he and his life. I was blessed with the ability to play for him in Tampa Fl. in 1968. When you've been around a manager a whole season you get to know him very well, so I think I can be very candid in my feelings for Mr. Scheger. I loved the man as a manager and a human being. Brad Lesley was right, he taught you to be a man. He loved his family and his players. For those of us who knew him, we are saddened by his passing. Saddened that we cant experience his character and love of the game of baseball. He changed my life for the better...what greater thing can you say about a hero.
We still teach the game as he taught us. Thanks George...see you soon.
1985 George Scherger with Roger, Chris & Benj Scherger
Roger Scherger
November 8, 2011
Just want send to entire George Scherger Family our Sympathy and best wishes. I was honored to meet George in 1973 and he was so kind to our family and we were honored to know George Scherger. What a nice man and we have great memories of George Scherger. Again best wishes to his entire Family!
Patricia Ford Brown
November 6, 2011
I was sorry to hear of you loss. It appears he was quite a guy. My thoughts and prayers will be w/ you.
Brad Lesley
October 26, 2011
My sincere condolences to George's family, you were very important to him and he spoke aof all of you often during the season. You don't know me, my name is Brad Lesley and I considered George Sherger to be my father. I grew up without a father figure and when at 19 I had the pleasure of playing for Georger in Tampa in 1980 in A ball, 1981 AA in Waterbury, Conn_ Was his ace relief pitcher in in 1982 @ Indianapolos , and when I got called to the big laguies it was with George again. He often put his foot deep in my behind, yet he was always the one to compliment and instruct and teach. I have kept in touch with him every year in spring training and Fantasy Camps and put many forner players on the phone for him to talk with. He loved hearing from Dougy Flynn and Johny Bench two of his favorites. I just found out last nite of George's passing and have been crying ever since. I laugh at wonderful memories, but again the tears come. Living in Los Angeles it is tough to keep up , but I will find me a Scherger in charolette when my travels next take me to the Carolinas. Again, my heartfely condolences for your loss. I loved George. Iam grateful this man took me under his wing and was such a gifted teacher of this great game. He would be happy to know I am passing his teachings on at the high school level as we speak. I would love to speak with one of Gearge's children 818 822 6945. Thamnk You / God Bless
October 19, 2011
Our condolences to the Scherger family. You'll be in our thoughts and prayers.
David & Judi Ballard
October 18, 2011
My dad will greatly miss the call he could always count on from your Dad. Through the years and the miles he all ways was happy when George would call. He will sorely miss his brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone and may your memories of your Dad bring you comfort. Love Uncle Leo and family
Chris and Amy Allison
October 18, 2011
George, Jane and the Scherger family,
We are sorry to hear of Mr. Scherger's death.
We pray for peace for you during this difficult time.
October 17, 2011
The Scherger Family, So sorry to hear of your lost. I remember back in grade school playing ball with George Jr. and his dad. We went to Assumption together and were good friends with the McMillans who I think you knew as well. Sincerly, Greg Cesario
Al and Shirley Furr
October 17, 2011
To the Scherger Family, our thoughts are with you at this time.
George and Jane are special to us and we have heard about all of you. We lived in Ohio back when your Dad was with the Red Machine and attended some games and of course our boys were enamored with the Reds.
We were honored to meet George Sr. several years ago in Concord and had a great conversation with him.
Al and Shirley Furr
October 17, 2011
George and my Uncle Jack Webb were in the service together and Uncle Jack and Aunt Ruth always thought so much of George. In just the last few years after my aunt suffered a debilitating stroke and could no longer communicate, George came to see her religiously, bringing flowers or candy. He was a sweet and thoughtful man who remained a steadfast friend to her to the end. I will always appreciate his kindness. You had a wonderful father.
October 16, 2011
Mr. Scherger was a wonderful neighbor! When I was walking regularly to lose weight, he would come out on his side porch as I passed, and cheer me on. Some days I would pause in my walk and we'd chat a bit. He was very supportive & a great cheerleader!
My most sincere condolences on your loss,
M Greene, Laburnum Ave
Joshua Fitzgerald
October 16, 2011
May peace find all your loved ones at this time. Sincerest condolences.
Joshua, Tara, Jacob & Luke Fitzgerald (St Gabriel Catholic School)
Bill Jamieson
October 16, 2011
To The Family, I met George in 1969 while scouting with the Reds. I never knew anyone who had more fun in the game. He helped me considerably with his knowlege of the game. He and Sparky were a joy to see together. He was a fine gentleman and it was a pleasure to have known him. Please accept my condolences and God Bless You All.
October 15, 2011
Dan, Bob and I want to express our
deepest sympathy to you and your dear
family at this difficult time. Your dad
sounded like such a wonderful, talented
and admired man and we want you to know
that you are in our thought and prayers.
Love,
Margaret and Bob Means
October 15, 2011
Dear Teresa, George Jr., and Scherger family; Bob Threatt here from Assumption School days. Please forgive this most pedestrian means of communication, and I beg you accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of George Sr. My mother, Mary E Threatt asks that I also extend her deepest sympathy.
Tom Silverblatt
October 15, 2011
Dan,I was sorry to hear the news of your dad's passing. You and your family are in my prayers.
Another Happy Memory
Karen Spalding
October 15, 2011
Teresa, George, Joe and Dan, I am so sorry. I wish I could be there with you at this time. I am in spirit. Uncle George was always very good to me. I love you all, Karen Chipley Spalding
CARL HAMM JR.
October 15, 2011
I I AM SADDENED TO SEE MR. SCHERGER PASSED AWAY. I MET HIM WHEN HE WAS THIRD BASE COACH FOR THE REDS. HE WORKED AT COTSWOLD A&P IN THE OFF SEASON WHERE I DELIVERED FOR AGBOONECO.GOOD CONVERSATIONS GOOD MAN VERY FRIENDLY AND LOVED BASEBALL AS I DID. HE HAD A GREAT LIFE CAN'T IMAGINE!!!
Lisa Sanders
October 15, 2011
Teresa and family,
I would like to express my deep and healtfelt sympathy over the loss of your father. My heart goes out to you and I am praying for your comfort.
Love Lisa
Joan Hark
October 15, 2011
I have known George since I was 8 years old. Even though I haven't seen him in years, I always went to see the "Reds" just to see him. His brother Leo is my Brother-in-Law, so I want to send George's Family my Sympathy. Though I haven't kept in touch with him, I will pray for him. Joan Hark Weber.
Norma Messer
October 15, 2011
It was an honor and a privilege to meet and serve George and his very special family this past several weeks. George was a fine man, who raised his 4 children to be kind, caring and compassionate people. George will be missed, I'm certain, by all who came in contact with him.
Sincerely, and with deepest sympathy,
richard g
October 15, 2011
To the Sherger Family -
thanks for sharing your father with us in Cincinnati.... Growing up without a Dad in the '70s was tough
October 15, 2011
Teresa,Richard and Family,
We never had the pleasure of meeting your Dad but from the stories and pictures we felt like we knew him. He surely was a kind and wonderful man....and what a exciting and long life....
You are a family that anyone would be very proud of ....stay close and comfort one another during this time.
May God give you comfort and peace....you are in our thought and prayers. Judy and Bob
Gail Skidmore
October 14, 2011
To all the Scherger family,
Uncle George was a wonderful and kind person. I was so fortunate to have him as my uncle. Your family is so close and supportive of each other. I admire all of you for the deep commitment you made to allow your dad to remain in his home and for the dedicated and loving care you gave him while he will ill. He was a joy to be around! What a wonderful family you are - a family I know he loved and was proud of! Take comfort in the closeness you have with each other and as a family which I believe is the legacy your dad would be most proud of. God Bless and know you are being lifted up in prayer during this difficult time of loss. Love, Gail Sims Skidmore and Family
October 14, 2011
I got news for ya, Sugar Bear. We are going to be World Champions again. We are now going to be World Champions again!
—Sparky Anderson to George Scherger, after Johnny Bench's second Game 4 homer.
Myra Billings
October 14, 2011
George and Jane, Our family is thinking of yours at this time. We have been through so much together and we want you to know we are here for you now! Love, Myra & Steve Billings & Family
Lillian Glenn
October 14, 2011
Teresa, Katie, and Sherry, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God's peace and comfort surround your family. Love, Lillian
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