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Chick Hearn Obituary
“There's never going to be another Chick Hearn,” former Lakers star and basketball Hall of Famer Magic Johnson said Monday night. “He's a man who will be remembered long after. Some people grow bigger than their sport, bigger than their job.”
Hearn, the only play-by-play announcer the Lakers ever had, died at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Northridge Medical Center Hospital, team spokesman Bob Steiner said. He was 85.
Hearn fell and struck his head Friday in the back yard of the Encino home he shared with wife Marge. They would have celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary Aug. 13.
Surgeons operated twice Saturday to relieve swelling in his brain, but he never regained consciousness.
Honored as a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame and the American Sportscasters Hall of Fame, Hearn was immortalized in 1986 with a star on Hollywood's “Walk of Fame” where a flower and candle tribute quickly grew.
Hearn introduced radio and television fans to now standard phrases such as “slam dunk” and “air ball” as he became an inseparable part of an organization that has produced nine NBA championship teams.
“Generations of fans were brought to the NBA by the voice and vision of Chick Hearn,” NBA commissioner David Stern said. “From Wilt and West to Magic and Kareem to Shaq and Kobe, Chick was a fixture as the 'Voice of the Lakers' and a legend in his profession.”
About 100 fans gathered outside the hospital, and many broke into tears when they heard Hearn died.
“I've been following the Lakers for 39 years. The only voice I ever heard was Chick's,” said Carol Weissberg, 46.
Neurologist Dr. Asher Taban combined his sense of loss with his description Monday night of the severity of Hearn's injury.
“I personally felt that the chance that he had (of recovery) was one out of 10,” Taban said of Hearn's severe intracranial bleeding. “I really feel that we have lost an icon. It was very hard for me to deal with it from the beginning in terms of his personality and knowing him.”
Another Hall of Fame broadcaster, Vin Scully of the Los Angeles Dodgers, also paid tribute to Hearn.
“We have lost a dear friend and a true broadcasting legend today,” Scully said. “I would like to offer a prayer of thanksgiving for having to be able to enjoy his work for all these years.”
Hearn called a record 3,338 consecutive Lakers games starting in 1965 before the streak ended in December 2001, when he underwent heart surgery. His absence stretched when he broke a hip in a fall in February. He returned April 9 and broadcast the Lakers' playoff run to their third consecutive championship.
During the NBA Finals, Hearn said he was getting stronger every day and planned to work at least one more season. He believed his call of the Lakers' Game 7 victory over Sacramento in the Western Conference finals might have been as good as any in his career.
Last week, he drove to Las Vegas with his wife to speak at a fantasy basketball camp.
“The city of Los Angeles has lost an incredible icon,” said former Lakers star and general manager Jerry West, now the Memphis Grizzlies' president of basketball operations. “He certainly helped me appear to be bigger than life. More importantly, he was a true, great friend.”
He joined the Lakers when the team moved from Minneapolis for the 1960-61 season.
Hearn's career was far longer than such Lakers standouts as Johnson, West, Elgin Baylor, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jamaal Wilkes, James Worthy and Michael Cooper.
And he was calling games long before current stars Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant were born.
“He gave me 'Big Game James.' He was the one responsible for my nickname,” said Worthy, a Lakers star of the 1980s championship teams. “I'm known by that nickname everywhere I go.”
Johnson said he will remember Hearn for more than what he did in the broadcast booth.
“When I talked to Chick, a lot of times it was hardly about basketball,” Johnson said. “He was always so proud of me. I would get little notes from him. That would make me feel so good.”
Born Francis Dayle Hearn on Nov. 27, 1916, in Aurora, Ill., Hearn described action on the court with terms like “no harm, no foul,” “the mustard's off the hot dog,” “ticky-tack foul,” and “faked him into the popcorn machine.”
Whenever he believed a Lakers victory was clinched, Hearn would say: “You can put this one in the refrigerator. The door's closed, the light's out, the eggs are cooling, the butter's getting hard and the Jell-O is jiggling.”
The Hearns had two children, but both died – a son of a drug overdose, and a daughter after battling anorexia. The couple was very close with Shannon, their granddaughter, and her family.
Funeral arrangements were pending. A family spokesman said there will be a public memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that people make donations to the charity of their choice in Hearn's name.
Copyright © 2002 The Associated Press
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Memories and Condolences
for Chick Hearn
Harry Simpson
August 6, 2016
Godspeed, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Vic Bulaich
November 27, 2015
He brought humor to the game and stayed with it, there were very few listeners radio, very little TV, if at all, with his isms. Att, at Sports arena were 3,500, maybe Celtics/Knicks close to a sell out. Like Vinny in baseball, taught us the game. Sent me two good tickets once for a question he used on the air.
Christopher Parks
October 23, 2013
Hey Chick... Thanks for inviting me courtside to autograph my Lakers jacket. I had a friend needlepoint it so it'll always be there on the sleeve. You were always great, live on in memory. Thanks for being The Best!
DONNA
March 28, 2010
THE LAKER GAMES ARE JUST NOT THE SAME WITHOUT CHICK THERE TO CALL THEM. WE MISS YOU. REST IN PEACE.GOD BLESS MARGE AND HIS FAMILY.
Keith Adkins
August 20, 2007
Dittos, and Hubba, Hubba.
Keith Adkins
April 26, 2005
Your spirit and good memories live on. God Bless.
Keith Adkins
October 13, 2004
Chick, your thoughts and standards you shared on the radio are with us even today. You remain in our hearts. Thank you for the memories.
YESENIA
August 21, 2002
WE WILL MISS YOU CHICK THERES NO ONE LIKE YOU. BUT YOU WILL BE WITH US AT ALL THE LAKER GAMES MY RESPECT AND REGARDS TO THE WONDERFUL LADY BEHIND EVERY GOOD MAN MARGE STAY STRONG MORE THAN YOU ARE. ONLY ONE CHICKIE BABY LOVE AND RESPECT,
HERMOSILLO AND RAYGOZA FAMILY
Judy Spence
August 10, 2002
To Chick's Family and the Laker Family:
I just wanted to thank Marge and the Laker Organization for allowing the fans to pay our respects to Chick. The wonderful thing about video is that we can share our favorite Chickisms with future generations to come.
Just want to let Marge and the Lakers know that the fans will never forget Chick.
Sincerly
Judy Spence
Gail Oliver
August 10, 2002
Chick, You were a Class Act and you will be remembered forever in our hearts....
Ry Means
August 10, 2002
Chick Hearn was my introduction to professional sports. I listened to games on my AM radio that my uncle had given me. I knew very little about basketball but after listening to him describe the contests I began to love it. I had to follow the Lakers and the NBA and learn how to play. He would have me clapping my hands and jumping one minute and biting my nails the next, only to have me howling a few seconds later at one of his Chickisms. What a unique man and absolutely the best play-by-play man I have ever heard call a game. If he had a daily radio show I think it would have the top rating in its time slot even if he wasn't a famous announcer. He was a very special and important piece of my life growing up. I was in SoCal in April this year during the playoffs and got to hear his voice announce a couple games. It just took me back so many years and I had a big smile on my face and tears in my eyes. I really miss you Chickie baby. This is very hard to accept that you're gone.
ANTHONY/ ELAINE MORENO
August 10, 2002
MY WIFE AND IWOULD LIKE TO SEND OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE HEARN FAMILY,LAKER BROADCASTS WILL NEVER BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU.YOU WILL BE MISSED ,GOD BLESS YOU.
LESLIE LEVINGSTON
August 9, 2002
CHICK YOU ARE AND WAS AVERY NICE PERSON.THERE WILL NEVER A ANOTHER ANNOUNCER LIKE YOU EVER AGAIN NOT IN MY LIFE TIME. YOU WILL ALL WAYS BE IN MY HEARTS AND YOUR FAMILY WILL BE IN MY PRAYS ALLWAYS. THE SOUND ON THE RADIO WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN. LOVE YOU ALLWAYS LESLIE LEVINGSTON LONG BEACH CALIFORNIA
Barbara Wahl
August 9, 2002
I'd like to quote a statement from a staff writer (Daily News), Doug Krikorian. "You knew that Chick Hearn's timeless reign would have to come to a finish, as everything in life inevitably does. But it's a difficult reality to accept because Chick Hearn has become such a sacred part of the Southern California ambience that you just figured he'd last into infinity."
That sums up why I've found myself choked up and tiery eyed since the news Monday night. Even though I knew someday this "golden voice" would be silenced, the reality was I guess I never really accepted it.
Listening to the Laker Games will never be the same to me. I'll miss Chick's "golden voice" more than I thought!
Thank you and GOD speed from a true Chick and Lakers fan.
MARY JOHNSON
August 9, 2002
CHICK YOU WERE THE BEST..
WILL MISS YOU CALLING THE LAKERS GAMES...
Steve Hozinsky
August 9, 2002
Chick you were without a doubt the best play-by-play announcer ever to call a game. Thank you for the "words-eye-view" and for teaching me the game. I always will treasure having grown up with you Chick. It will be strange listening to a new voice calling the games in the future. I was hoping you would be there forever, but I guess God wanted you too. Thank you for sharing Chick with us Marge and for all the great memories. You will forever be in our hearts Chick.
Pat Rodriguez
August 9, 2002
Mr. Hearn,
May you rest in peace. You will be missed.
Joseph Dukich
August 9, 2002
Your golden voice will last forever in my mind never to be forgotten Hope you carry on your ledgend in heaven. You will be sorrily missed here on earth. May you rest in peace.
Larry Frazin
August 9, 2002
Think about all the memories you gave me I was choked up reading about you in the LA Times, the Day of your Funeral, I was laughing and crying at the same time right there in Jerry's Famous Deli, MDR, in which I am a regular.
Thank you for all the wonderful memories, all the great calls, all the great "Chickisms", your very special "words-eye-view" of Lakers Basketball. Marge, thankyou for sharing a wonderful treasure of a man, a human being, a warm and generous person with us for all those years. You were so kind to us all, too. In very sad condolences, one of Chicks beloved fans of the millions,
Sadly and warmly, regards
Larry Frazin
Sandy Parker
August 9, 2002
I only starting watching basketball a couple of years ago but, I must add, that much of what I have learned about the game came from Chick Hearn. He will be sorely missed. God speed!
Lolita
August 9, 2002
Chickie Baby was the Best. I didn't know too much about the different Basketball Plays until I started listening to Chickie. He made it fun and informable. The whole Basketball World will miss his Golden Throat during the Basketball seasons to come. My deepest sympathy to his family and his closest friends, including his co-partner Stu Lantz.
Penny Biden
August 9, 2002
Chick, You have been the voice of the Lakers forever. I have grown up with you, laughing and cheering together. You are truly a treasure, and will be sadly missed.
M. C.
August 9, 2002
Chick,
You have given the words you say life. My thanks to your love and enthusiasm for the game. You will be sorely missed. I really can say that your full life has impacted plenty of people in Southern California and throughout the world. May you be the first on the plane to heaven. God bless
michael calzada
August 8, 2002
the sound of your voice well be miss when i listen to the laker game iwasent abig laker fan until i herd chick voice may he rest in peace you will be miss by alot of true laker fan
Stuart Erenberg
August 8, 2002
Chick was the most entertaining announcer I have ever heard. No one was ever close. Other guys were as knowledgeable but no one had the whole package of Chick. Listening to a Laker game on tv after moving to New Mexico was almost like watching a different team. The Lakers were and always will be Chick Hearn.
You had to have grown up in Los Angeles in the Laker eras of the
sixties and seventies to really understand the Chicky aura he had on the city. We had Chick, Vin Scully, Bob Miller and Dick Enberg.
What a time to be a sportsfan with a radio!
Good Bye to the greatest Laker of them all.
Barbara Betancourt
August 8, 2002
You will be missed dearly, I don't know who we are going to listen to when the laker game comes on I got so used to my boyfriend putting the radio full blast and turning off the volume on the T.V., because he always said it isn't a laker game without hearing Chick. God bless you and your family.
Lee Phillips
August 8, 2002
Thank you Chick for giving of yourself so compeletely to not only the Laker organization but to Laker fans and all of Southern California.
You were an important part of my life and I feel like I lost a grandfather.
I thank you for being a young kid and falling asleep to your word's eye-view on many a night. I thank you for making a homesick 20 year old in the Army, overseas, feel at home listening to you on Armed Forces Radio. I will never forget you telling my brother to thank me for serving my country when you signed an autograph that he sent to me.
I thank you for allowing me to share in 30 years of wonderful memories. You were, SIMPLY THE BEST.............
MARLA EDWARDS
August 8, 2002
CHICK WAS A LEGEND THAT WE WILL NEVER FORGET....I USED TO LAUGH WHEN MY HUSBAND WOULD TURN DOWN THE VOLUME AND LISTEN TO THE RADIO..BUT NOW I UNDERSTAND WHY..NO ONE COULD
ANNOUNCE THE GAME LIKE CHICKIE BABY
YOU ARE GOING TO BE MISSED DEARLY
Julio Feliciano
August 8, 2002
Chick,
Who's going to check to make sure that "the butter's gettin hard" or "that the Jello's Jiggiling?" "Slam Dunk", "Popcorn Machine" so many vivid discriptions that made my listening to you such a wonderful experience! I can recall people walking into my house, my TV on with no sound, but my radio blaring with the sounds of "Chickie Baby!" It just won't be the same without you! You will be missed!!!!
Evan Pennet
August 8, 2002
Dear Marge Hearn and Family, friends and Laker fans around the world:
Thank you Mrs. Hearn and Family for sharing Chick with us the past 42 years. As a fan we seldom think about the time our hero's of the sportsworld spend on the road, on a plan, bus or hotel.
Chick travelled and called games for 42 years in magnificient style. The most innovative announcer I belive that has ever sat behind a Mircophone.
At his passing I feel that the "mustard has come off the hot dog", that something is a miss, and I am stuck dribbling through my day Yo-yoing up and down...recalling a 7 year old with a newly aquired basketball in his front yard imagining himself as Jerry West. Chick is calling the game as West crosses the half court line from "East to West on your dial", the Big O is all over him, he feeds into Wilt, he backs in "FINGER ROLL"!! No good...Hairston with the rebound feeds West...20ft out, he shoots its GOOOOd!
Chick was always there. Bringing color to the game, painting a picture boldly and honestly.
I've heard many mention how Chick "told it like it is", that he did not shy away from critiquing even the biggest stars..Wilt, West, Magic, Kareem or Shaq and Kobe or even the referees. This is important, but what a role model he was!!! In over 30 years of broadcasting I never heard Chick say anything MALICIOUSLY about anyone else. His critique was all business, he'd criticize behavior and share his love of individual players, the game, and the fans, but never said anything negative about an individual, only behavior.
If we can learn anything from Chick's Life, this would be a great place to start.
Thank you again to the Hearn Family, for sharing your husband, father, grandfather and National Treasure with his fans.
Shelton Welch
August 8, 2002
Chick Hearn was an inspiration to me as child growing up in Southern California (Long Beach)during the 50s-60s, especially when my cousin (Bill Bridges) was a Forward with the LA Lakers during 60s-70s. I can still see and hear your voice calling the "play-by-play" games for Los Angeles Lakers. Words just cannot express how much LA Lakers fans will miss you. You are now in peace. May God bless you and your beautiful family.
Melissa Flanigan/Stanley Whitley III
August 8, 2002
Chick I grew up listening to your voice I am only 24 and have no clue what a Laker game is like without you. My son is only 2 and already knew who you were. We will miss you deeply. You are truly one of a kind, and no one will ever replace you. I am sure my grandmother who is up in heaven will tell you about me, my dad and my son, and how much we loved you! May God be with your family and the Lakers.
The Pugh's, Jones's, & Thompsons
August 8, 2002
Marge & Shannon, and the entire Hearn's family, May God bless you and give you the strength to carry on. Chicky Baby is resting peacefully, and we will ALL miss him. To the Dr. Buss and the entire Laker organization, keep your head up and let do four consecutive, and dedicate it to Chick Hearn.
Williette Mitchell
August 8, 2002
Thanks Chickie Baby for a job well done, God is good!! God gave him a another chance to come back after surgery to get some love from us and say good bye. I'll miss you chick, I used to talk back to you during the games. Love Williete Mitchell
JERRY HERBOLD
August 8, 2002
Chick, thanks for all the great times I had listening to you announcing the Laker games for the 30 years when I lived in Lakewood. I live in Oregon now and was not able to listen to you the past 10 years, but I can only imagine how much fun you had the last 3 years with the Lakers. have a great time in heaven calling the games.
Carol Weissberg
August 8, 2002
I've been an avid Laker follower for 39 years. Chick's passing has moved so many because how could any passionate Laker fan not feel a strong attachment to the man who wore his passion for the game on his sleeve?
One of the many remarkable things about Chick was that the listener never needed a television to "see" the game. With the exception of Vin Scully, the breed simply doesn't exist anymore. Chick single-handedly turned a third-rate team with a miniscule audience into the most beloved of the city's professional sorts franchises, with his rapid but crystal-clear declamation, his obvious enthusiasm, and his priceless "chick-isms", now an everyday part of the basketball lexicon.
I was particularly fond of the rapport between Chick and Stu over the past 15 years. Two instances in particular come to mind. One occured during a game in Denver. The Lakers were ahead but Denver was threatening. Chick announced that if the Lakers lost the game, he'd walk home. They lost, and Stud ribbed him about it for months. Better yet (and my memory is much foggier about these circumstances), they were calling a game at home. I believe one of the Lakers was at the foul line -- it may have been Magic. Chick announced with conviction that if the player missed the next free throw, he'd personally buy hamburgers for everyone in the arena. Of course, the shot was a brick. I don't think Stu let Chick forget that one for an entire year.
Although I'm not accustomed to doing such things, I was at the hospital last night when the announcement was made. I was in tears. I saw grown men crying. I hugged a stranger who related so strongly to my sense of loss. But I'm forever grateful for the years we've had the privilege of knowing Chick, for the joy he brought me personally, and for the fact that he did not suffer at the end. The doctor indicated that even if he had recovered, he'd most likely suffer a speech impairment. For the life of me I could not imagine Chick, with his indominatable spirit, sitting at home watching games he would no longer be able to call, even if only for his own benefit.
My deepest condolences to Marge and Shannon and the rest of the family. God Speed Chick. Wilt is waiting for you.
Dale Crawford
August 8, 2002
I'm sorry he had to leave us and maybe the reason why he did was that they needed another sport caster.
George & Suzy Gilman
August 8, 2002
We will miss you Chick! Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hearn Family.
chris burke
August 8, 2002
Chick, Thank You for a lifetime of entertaining broadcasting. Basketball games shall never be the same without your voice.
jonathan dollison
August 8, 2002
i live in germany but i love the lakers. i'm 10 yrs. old i remember hearing chick's voice on the radio. i will pray for you and your family. la lakers are the best 3x champions go for the 4-peat for chick.
jonatha dollison, germany
CHERYL DOLLISON
August 8, 2002
I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE VOICE OF CHICK HEARNS. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU MRS. HEARNS AND FAMILY. ALSO TO THE LAKERS ORGANIZATION. I WILL MISS CHICK.I REMEMBER SOMETIMES BEENING AT WORK AND TURNING THE RADIO ON JUST TO HERE CHICK VOICE. HE MADE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU WAS AT THE GAME. I'M A TRUE LA LAKERS FAN. I'M LIVING IN GERMANY RIGHT NOW AND I HAVE TO STAY UP UNTIL 3am JUST TO SEE THE LAKERS PLAY. MY FRIENDS SAY I'M CRAZY TO STAY UP TO LOOK AT A BASKETBALL GAME BUT I DO.
TAKE CARE AND MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL.
CHERYL DOLLISON
BUTZBACH,GERMANY
Jack Schroeder
August 8, 2002
The first time I heard Chick on the radio was when I was living in Germany in the 1980s. I listened to him on the Armed Forces Network during the Lakers-Celtics finals and I had no idea who he was. I remember telling people that the guy who called the Lakers games was pretty good. I wasn't a Lakers fan, but I sure thought their radio man was good. Later I lived in L.A. and got to listen to Chick regularly. What a treat. He cannot be replaced.
susan hira
August 7, 2002
Chick, We love you and we will miss you more than you know. PLEASE keep us in touch with us from the big score board in the sky. Love from the Hiranandani family in Santa Barbara, CA
Maura Hudson
August 7, 2002
Chick Hearn taught me and my family about basketball, how to appreciate it, and how to enjoy the game. He was a rare and wonderful human being, and the perfect role model for future sports broadcasters. May the tenor of his voice and the quickness of his wit always be remembered.
Darrell Miller
August 7, 2002
As a life-long Lakers fan, I am deeply saddened by the passing of "The Voice of the Lakers," Chick Hearn. Chick will forever be a part of the Lakers legacy.
Shohmare Manorika
August 7, 2002
CHICK HEARN NOW THERE IS A NAME THAT WE WOULD NEVER GET TIRED OF HEARING AND CHICK'S VOICE WILL STAY IN MY HEAD FOREVER, CHICK YOU ANNOUNCED GAMES IN WHICH MAGIC JOHNSON, KAREEM ABDUL JABAR, MICHEAL COOPER, JERRY WEST, AND AS WE ALL KNOW NOW SHAQ AND KOBE. YOU HAD A GREAT CAREER AND WHEN I HEARD THE NEWS OF YOUR DEATH I JUST BROKE DOWN AND CRIED. YOU WILL BE MISSED AND WHEN THE LAKERS PLAY EVERY GAME I WILL TURN DOWN THE VOLUME ON MY T.V. AND PRETEND YOU AE STILL ANNOUNCING THE GAMES.
Larry & Mary Baker
August 7, 2002
Will miss you Chick
Florease Laird
August 7, 2002
After living in Ca for 38 years, I am still a Laker's fan , I loved Chick, he was the greatest, just hearing his voice was a joy.
May God bless his family.
Florease laird
Roxie, MS
Bob Moreno
August 7, 2002
All the great analogies already have been made, so all that is left to say is thank you for the pictures your words burned into the collective consciousness of sportsfans and non-sportsfans alike.
Marie Harris
August 7, 2002
My sincere condolences are sent to Mrs. Hearn and the Laker organization. I've been an avid basketball fan for numerous years and I can honestly say that Chick was one of the most "honest" and entertaining broadcasters ever. As I continue to support the Lakers, I'll remember Chick during every game. Chick - thanks for the memories.
Marie Harris
daniel padilla
August 7, 2002
I USED TO TURN DOWN THE VOLUME OF THE PLAYOFF ANOUNCERS AND TURN UP THE RADIO JUST TO HEAR THE VOICE OF YOU CHICK. YOU WILL BE MISSED BY ALL US FANS BUT WE WILL NEVER FORGET THE BEST VOICE IN SPORTS RADIO.
Keith Jacobs
August 7, 2002
I am still in shock over the loss in the passing of THE greatest. Mr. Hearn, it was you and Vin Scully who maintained a sense of reality in my life in an impossible childhood. Thank you for all the years of your dedication. You will always be in my heart, thought of daily, and never replaced. May God support your loved ones that you temporarily left behind.
Elsia Orozco
August 7, 2002
Chick, I can't imagine the basketball season without you! Thanks for all the fun! God Bless!
MARIA CARDENAS
August 7, 2002
YOU WERE NO DOUBT THE VOICE OF THE LAKERS MY HUSBAND AND I HEARD YOU PLENTY OF TIMES WHEN WE LIVED IN THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
Ken Eyre
August 7, 2002
I am a Laker fan in Utah, and had a couple opportunities to hear Chick call laker games. He was the best, no doubt about it. I know that the Lakers are going to dedicate this coming season to chick and I have no doubt that the Lakers are going to 4 peat. Best of luck to the Hearn family and the Laker family.
Jose & Cindy Orozco
August 7, 2002
You might be gone but you will never be forgotten...
We will always have you in our hearts.....
Herbert Dennis
August 7, 2002
....Like an old Solider, your voice will never die but will live on forever in our hearts.
Once a Laker, forever a Laker.
Purple & Gold Forever
davis flynn
August 7, 2002
I first met Chick at the "roundtable" in Santa Barbara in 1969. The last time was at the Valley Inn at the bar in 2001. A very sad day but oh those memories.
Jennifer Thacker
August 7, 2002
The Laker Games will never be the same without you, May you rest in Peace.
David Maley
August 7, 2002
The last time I was at an NBA game was the 1998 western conference semifinals (game 5) between the Lakers and Sonics in Seattle. I had a 1988 souvenir ceramic beer stein that I wanted Chick to autograph. When I found him, he was very gracious to sign it. I have sent pictures of it to my friends over the last four years and I still have it on my dresser. Yes, there were non-Laker fans who enjoyed your broadcasts! Thanks, Chick---you were the greatest!!!
Fox
August 7, 2002
Chick,
May you continue broadcasting the game in the great arena in the sky. The whole Lakerdom will miss you. Godspeed.
Steve Soboroff
August 7, 2002
We sit a row behind Chick at Staples Center and his warmth and kindness to our family was always
appreciated.
Patrice Houlemard
August 7, 2002
I guess a good thing doesn't last forever and Chick was definitely a good thing. I grew up in a sports home where my Dad would have a baseball game on the T.V and Chick on the radio. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr.Hearn last year at Staples, Chick and Marge were waiting for their car.Like eveyone says, he was very nice and very sincere.God Bless you Chick and Thank You for all of the years of knowledge and honesty. Thank you for the "Flavor" that you added in to make it taste good! You will forever be in our hearts.
Patrice Houlemard -Pasadena Ca
Kevin Rindenow
August 7, 2002
Chick, you were my inspiration. You were a surrogate grandfather, whenever all was not well in LakerLand, you always made us feel like we had a chance. And during those horrible years when we fell to the likes of the Jazz and Spurs, you always told us that the next year would be our year...and you were right. Basketball and broadcasting will never be the same.
Michael Foster
August 7, 2002
Chick,
No one could call 'em like you, and no one ever will.
Marco Lopez
August 7, 2002
Chick everyone is missing you. Laker games wont be the same without you, but believe this we will win another championship and i know you'll be broadcasting it to God.
Eduardo & Valeria Ascencio
August 7, 2002
Chick,we will always still hear
you in our hearts on every laker
game.
Sandy and Chris Allen
August 7, 2002
Chick-
You were the sixth man on the court, the eye in the sky, and the voice of basketball. Players will come and go, but you, Chick, can never be replaced. You tied generations together, saw it all, and changed the face of the game. We will miss you, even though we know you'll always be on the court.
Our deepest sympathies to the Hearn family, and everyone who had the wonderful chance to meet and know a man named "Chick".
God speed Chick...
Christina Samson
August 7, 2002
Hey Chick, you were an awesome broadcaster. You started 'slam dunk', 'airball' and all those cool words. Basketball won't be the same anymore. Condolonces to your family, the Lakers, and all Laker fans.
Jim Robertson
August 7, 2002
I was a resident in Long Beach,from 1983-1992. Listing to Chick broadcast Laker games brought me many hours of joy. I will miss Chick Hearn greatly.
Edith Shipman
August 7, 2002
Chick, Listening or watching the games will never be the same. Last time I went to a game I was lucky enough to sit across from you. I know you are in God's hands now, but will always be watching the Lakers from heaven.
Annie
August 7, 2002
hey there chick...
you were my hero!! i hope the angels will take care of you in heaven!! i will really miss you!! o will be here for you to!! i love listening to your voice on tv or on the radio!! thanks chicky!!
Melissa Birchfield
August 7, 2002
I am going to miss you so very much Chicky Baby! No one will ever be able to replace you! Thank you for the memories!
Edward Lewis
August 7, 2002
I was very pleased that Chick took the time to send me personal first-hand information about himself to be included in the Celebrity Almanac. Contrary to media reports that he was born in 1916, he was actually born on November 27, 1915, which would have made him 87 this november. His legacy quote that he wrote I would like to share with his fans and it went like this "If I am only for myself-than who am I"? Chick Hearn. This certainly sumed up his outstanding career and life. Ed Lewis, Author/Creator of the Celebrity Almanac
Richard
August 7, 2002
CHICK
WE WILL MISS YOU!!
Susan
August 7, 2002
YOU WE'RE THE BEST CHICK THERE WILL BE NO ONE LIKE YOU REST IN PEACE
Chynna Panapa
August 7, 2002
Chick - Growing up listening to your voice during the games, was the greateast thing. U just knew how to put it into words. "U" will be missed a great deal in our household. It's not gonna be the same hearing the games anymore; because "YOU" knew exactly how to say what you would at the right time. Have a great journey to the beautiful place above, say "Hello" to all the other fans up there, mainly my dad. "YOU" have done one heck of a job. Thanks for being "YOU"
Monique Casarez
August 7, 2002
Chick I will truly truly miss you. You are the Lakers - the one and only constant and now we have lost you visually but not spiritually. It will be very difficult to listen and watch games without your voice I can not even imagine it...you have left a legacy that will never ever be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to Marge and your entire family. Chick you are a treasure and will not be forgotten.
I love you!
Daryle Henderson
August 7, 2002
Thank you Chick for sharing your gift and the love of the game with everyone you touched.
Art Tidey
August 7, 2002
My stepson, Ryan, rigged his CD receiver to my radio and brought in a Laker affiliate in No. Calif. We got to hear Chick's broadcasts of the 2002 championship year. How sweet it is. Thanks Chick.
Bernie Visser
August 7, 2002
Chicky Baby, You are the best man. I would always listen to you on the simulcast. I have been so lucky to grow up in Long Beach and listen to you call all those magical/mystical Laker games. We will miss you dearly, expecially during the b-ball season. Rest in Peace my friend...your friend, Bernie
David Boyce
August 7, 2002
During the Pat Riley era we use to joke about when teams made runs on the Lakers Chick would seem to yell at the top of his lungs Riley needs a time out! Riley needs a time out!and shortly afterwards Riley would call timeout.Chick we loved your honesty May god Bless you and your family.
Traci Tutterow
August 7, 2002
I grew up listening to Chick Hearn. You will truly be missed by all. I know I feel like I lost part of my family or a grandparent. It will feel funny not having you say what you always say or when we go 4 peat. It just won't be the same. Let's Go, Lakers this one for Chick!
dorothy hemphill
August 7, 2002
may you rest in peace in GOD'S loving arms
warren merriman
August 7, 2002
I lived in Los Angeles and Long Beach from 1972 to 1989. During that time not only was I a diehard Boston Celtics fan, but I was also a diehard Chick Hearn fan. He was not only the best basketball announcer in the business, but he was also one of the most gracious people I have ever seen. Unlike too many of the talking heads that inhabit the broadcast booth on television, Chick Hearn was actually fun to listen to. Not only was he knowledgeable, but he greatly respected the fans. Basketball and Los Angeles has truly lost an icon. So long Chick, we will all miss you greatly.
Frank Acevedo
August 7, 2002
Chick you are simply the best.
Robin Guyton
August 7, 2002
When I moved to California in 1984
I could not get used to Chick at all, coming from the mid-west I was used to network broadcasters.But I soon got used to Chick a Laker game was not a game without his play-by-play.And even though I have for the past two years have moved back to the mid-west. I feel the same lost as all of LA must now. God Bless you Chick your sprit will live on.
Andy Zaccardo
August 7, 2002
Our loss is Heavens gain. Save me a good seat, we will miss you Chick.
From a fan!
Arnie Meissner
August 7, 2002
We knew the public Chick Hearn, but Marge and his family knew the real, private Chick Hearn.
My thoughts and prayers go to the Hearn Family, who is suffering a far greater loss than Lakers fans.
Frank and Venessa Sanchez
August 7, 2002
Another Legend is lost...
Rest in Peace Chick, you will be in our thoughts with every Laker game.
Yolanda Peterson
August 7, 2002
I will truely miss him. My thoughts and prayers to the family, the 3X NBA World Champions, the Laker organization, and to all of the many Laker fans who enjoyed Chick's play-by-play announcing as I did. May you rest in Peace.
Virgil Castaneda
August 7, 2002
We have lost an irreplaceable legend. It was far better to turn off the TV volume and listen to Chick on the radio when he wasn't announcing on TV. We will miss you, Chick-ee Baby!!
Stephen Due
August 7, 2002
What an awakening. I thought I was a Lakers fan, and just now I realize I was a Chick fan all this time.
Laura Hosking
August 7, 2002
My deepest sympathy to Chick Hearn's wife, Marge, and all his close friends and family. I went to my very first Laker Game a few months ago. Recently married, my husband's passion for B-Ball rubbed-off onto me. Seeing a game was awesome, but not the same without Chick, who was still recuperating from heart surgery. We both were teary-eyed at the news of his loss, and share in this unforgetable loss with everyone. They don't make 'em like "Chick" anymore.
jeff noddle
August 7, 2002
hello i think that chick hearn is know person that the L.A. LAKERS can replace. he's the in broadcasting for quite a long time.
my warmest & dearest thoughts go out to marge and their granddaugter.
chick, we will miss you all
Jim Meser
August 7, 2002
Thank you, Chick, for...
...putting me in the arena no matter how far removed I may have been.
...soothing my pain when the damn Celtics would beat us yet again in the finals.
...making me believe the Lakers could rally from 13 down in game 7 against Portland if they would just stop playing "stupid basketball."
...teaching me the nuances of the game so that I could pass them on to my boys.
...telling me the Lakers played a "terrible game tonight" when no one else would be honest enough to do the same.
...every brick, 20-foot lay-up, fall-away jumper, slaaaaaam dunk, and even the occasional "dumbest shot in the history of basketball."
...painting a vivid, full color portrait in the mind's eye of a young boy that would sneak his radio under his pillow just to hear Jerry, Elgin, and Wilt.
...painting the same pictures for my sons some 25+ years later.
...bringing together a diverse region. Black, White, Latino, Asian... These labels meant nothing. We were united as Lakers fans because of you.
...making me feel as if we were friends even though our only contact was a brief exchange of "hello's" at a 1972 game at The Forum.
And a special thank you to Marge Hearn. You are perhaps the only thing Chick loved more than the Lakers. Thank you for sharing Chick with us.
Rest peacefully, my friend, our friend.
Ginger & Robert Balkcom
August 7, 2002
You will be greatly missed!
Glenn Prichard
August 7, 2002
Your Words Eye View was far better than watching the games on TV. You brought laughter and joy to millions of our lives. We'll never forget you, Chick. Rest In Peace.
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How to support Chick's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Chick Hearn's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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