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Joe Niekro Obituary
The two-time 20-game winner suffered a brain aneurysm Thursday. He died at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa.
Niekro, father of San Francisco Giants first baseman Lance Niekro, won 221 games in his career but never became as well known as his Hall of Fame brother, Phil.
Joe Niekro found success after developing the knuckleball and pitched into his 40s. The Niekros had a combined 539 major league victories, a record for brothers.
Joe Niekro won a franchise-best 144 games in 11 seasons with the Astros from 1975 to 1985, when he was traded to the New York Yankees. He was an All-Star in 1979, when he went 21-11 with a 3.00 ERA and followed up with a 20-12 record in 1980.
He beat the Dodgers in a one-game playoff that clinched Houston's first postseason berth in 1980. Seven years later, he finally appeared in the World Series with the Minnesota Twins.
Niekro was born on Nov. 7, 1944 in Martins Ferry, Ohio. A third-round draft pick of the Cubs in 1966, he broke into the majors in 1967 and appeared in 702 games, including 500 starts, in 22 years with the Cubs, Padres, Tigers, Braves, Astros, Yankees and Twins.
He finished 221-204 with a 3.59 ERA, including 144-116 with a 3.22 ERA for the Astros.
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
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142 Entries
Harry Simpson
October 27, 2014
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Chelsea Baker
April 23, 2014
Coach Joe. I'm still working very hard to represent the throw you taught me years ago. I think of you daily and want to tell you , " I miss you and thank you again from the bottom of my heart".
Chelsea Baker
October 27, 2013
So sorry for your loss. I met Joe when I worked for Dr. Vazquez in St. Clairsville Ohio. I will always cherish the autographed baseball that Joe and Phil signed for me.
Pat Keller, Madison, OH
Dwight C,. Baker
June 29, 2011
My name's Dwight Baker and, I currently,live in Bryan, Tx 90 miles north of Houston. I was born with a birth defect called Spina Bifida. I met joe back in the early 80's after I completed a 90 mile walk from Bryan, Tx to Houston in '82. I walked in memory of (at the time at least to my knowledge) 10 friends who also, born with the same birth defect mentioned above who died and are buried in Houston Cemeteries at the time,both joe and his brother phil were honorary chairmen of the local assosciation in Houston and raised over ten thousand dollars I`met joe at a dinner where I presented a check to him. Over the years, my friendship with them grew. Altho, I don't know if he and his brother phil were or, are still honorary chairmen and if, they still play games for the Houston, Spina Bifida Association it was an honor getting to know joe. His death, will be both, a great loss to not only his fsmily and many fans but, the Houston Spina Bifida Association and, the sport of baseball and, myself. May his spirit live forever, in the hearts of us all. Dwight C. Baker, Bryan, Tx
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Chelsea Bakerff
August 8, 2010
Coach Joe,
You would not believe how my life has changed the past 6 months. I never knew you teaching me the knuckle ball would change my life so much. I am honored to have articles written abouth how " Joe Niekros knuckle ball lives through the arm of a 12 yr. old girl." I am glad to be that girl.
I miss and love you and wish you could be here to experience all these great moments with me.
I will try my best to make you proud.
love you,
Chelsea Baker
CAROL SANDERS
May 8, 2010
Dear Natalie, Lance, Nancy and the whole Niekro family,
They say that life is a circle and I suppose that is so. I received a newspaper article, from a good friend of mine, telling about a twelve year old girl, who was perfecting the knuckle ball because of her interest in Joe Niekro. I read the article and then answered him with this story I am now sharing with you.
We were from Houston, Texas and had season tickets, for years, to the Astros games, where we watched Joe Niekro pitch. When we were transferred to Lakeland, Florida, we definitely did not want to go. And, we sure as heck did not want to give up our Astro season tickets. But, as God would have it, we did indeed move to Lakeland.
We built a house at 59 Shadow Lane,we were Wayne, Carol, Kelly and Kyle Sanders. And, this is how we came to know all of you. Other people knew Joe Niekro, the baseball player, the pitcher. We knew Joe Niekro, the husband of Nancy, father, friend and genuinely good man. During his time in Lakeland, his schedule included daily trips to our house on a bicycle. We would visit for hours. And, we would laugh hysterically, that we had to move cross country to meet you all....when you all lived in Houston half the year...not far from where we lived. It was definitely in God's plan for us to be friends.
When it was time for us to move back to Texas, we hated leaving the Niekro's behind. But, as it turned out, it was Joe Niekro who came to Texas Children's Hospital, laden with Astro memorabilia that made us all smile, in spite of Kyle's Hodgkin's diagnosis. And, it was all your letters, Natalie, written to Kyle, that we all looked forward to each week.
On March 31,2006, Wayne passed away, suddenly. Just seven months later, on Oct. 28th, the day before what would have been our 40th wedding anniversary, Joe Niekro, unbeknonst to us, entered those pearly gates, as well.
There is no doubt in my mind that they greeted one another enthusiastically. There is no doubt in my mind, that they are smiling as we all read this. There is no doubt in my mind that they are watching out for us....because this is who they are and this is what they do. Taking care of us was their REAL job.
We never forgot any of you. We made a good circle. We met when we were supposed to meet. And, we are not closing this circle. We will just have to see where God places us next. Our family sends you love and a very deep understanding. I, personally, would not take a million dollars for the laughter shared with Nancy and Joe Niekro. It was a wonderful circle!
Love,
Carol Sanders
michele Mc Anany
April 13, 2010
coach Joe just wanted to thank you for making a dream come true for myself and all the women of the colorado silver bullets,,it was awesome to have the previlidge to call u coach there would have been no womens team without u tommy jones and phil i have had and will always have our picture of the team on my wall. to your wife kids and family i truley thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing joe to coach us u r truly missed all my love MAC
July 14, 2009
I love you Dad. You are my forever angel. I miss you every second of every day!
Love,
Natalie
Steph
May 8, 2009
In case you don't know... the Joe Niekro Foundation is committed to aiding in the research and treatment of aneurysm patients and families. Our goal is to raise awareness about aneurysm factors, causes, treatments and research. All funds are used to educate the public about brain aneurysms, to support patients and families, and to develop awareness programs and educational materials for hospitals, clinics, and other institutions worldwide. http://www.joeniekrofoundation.com
CHELSEA BAKER
January 19, 2009
Coach Joe, you are so missed. I thank you for being so kind to me and my family. I was so lucky to meet you and be friends with you and your family. You will always be missed by me. Love always, MISSY MASON
Coach Joe taught me so much in the few short years I new him. He taught me how to have pride in myself and to be humble. most of all he taught me how to throw his famous knuckle ball that I still throw today. I miss seeing him walking around the lake on the way to school in the morning and his happy face at the ballpark. I will always remember and love you - CHELSEA BAKER
JJ Niekro
January 16, 2009
Dad you are the best person. I love you with all my heart and will never forget the time we were together and all you did for me. I love you so much.
Love, JJ
Christy Gans-Pratt
October 10, 2008
Natalie,
I know it has been some time since you father passed. But, I also know that no amount of time passing takes away the emptiness a loved one leaves behind. My brother and sister-in-law have been gone 4 years this November and I still think of them nearly every day. My thoughts are with you and your family.
BJ Johnson
August 11, 2008
Joe, I am so sorry I am just now finding out about this...I was watching the game tonight which I have not been following the Astros the last few seasons and saw the commercial on your continued legacy. You are a great man who brought many wonderful and treasured memories to all. Godspeed, Joe....BJ
WALLY SCHULTZ
July 25, 2008
I met Joe several years ago while playing golf. We became friends and shared interests in fishing and golf. Joe was a very good fisherman and a fair golfer. He had a terriffic sense of humor and we shared many laughs. I once towed Joe and Dave Burgman in from deep in the glades. It was a hillarious experience. I miss Joe and will always remember him. My regrets to his family and especially Lance. I hope to see Lance again someday snook fishing.
''WIN '' HAMMER
April 5, 2008
MY LATE DAD TOOK UP FLA. SOUT-HERN BASEBALL TICKETS WITH HIS
BEST FRIEND THAT HE TOOK TIME TO SPENT TIME WITH AT HIS HOME.
MY LATE FATHER & I ALAWAY GO TO
FLA. SOUTHERN BASKETBALL & BASE-BALL GAMES TOGETHER.JOE NIEKRO
WAS REAL REAL NICE TO TAKE TIME
OUT TO SIGN MY BASEBALL CARDS
OF HIM AT THE BASKETBALL GAMES
AT FLA. SOUTHERN.JOE ALWAYS TAKE TIME OUT FOR EVERYONE
INCULDING HIS FAMLIY & FRIENDS.ALSO HE ALWAYS LIKES TO SPEND TIME WITH WHOEVER HE IS WITH AT THE TIME.JOE NIEKRO IS
THE BEST OF THEM ALL TO TAKE TIME OUT FOR WHOEVER INCLULDING HIS FAMLIY & FRIENDS TOO.I WANT TO SAY I KNOW THAT IT WILL TAKE ONE DAY AT A TIME & IT TAKES TIME TO HEEL THE PAIN WHAT ALL OF YOU ARE GOING THRO-UGHT.YOU COULD COUNT ON ALL OF YOUR FAMLIY & FRIENDS. JOE NIEKRO MEANS A WHOLE LOT TO EVERYONE INCLUDING ALL OF HIS FAMLIY & FRIENDS.SORRY FOR YOUR LOST OF JOE NIEKRO & I WANT TO SAY TAKE CARE WHEN YOU FEEL BLUE JUST THINK OF THE GOOD TIMES THAT ALL OF YOU SPENT JOE
NIEKRO.
'' WIN '' HAMMER
'' WIN'' HAMMER
April 5, 2008
MY DAD DIED ON SAT. SEPT. 17 0F
2005 AT HOME IN THE EVENING TIME
& MY MOM DIED ON WED. SEPT. 7 OF
2005 AT A NURSEING HOME ON THE NORTHSIDE OF TOWN NOT TO FAR FROM JOKER MARCHANT STADIUM.I KNOW WHAT ALL OF YOU ARE GOING
THROUGHT.IT WILL TAKE TIME TO HEEL THE PAIN AFTER YOU LOSE SO-MEONE WHO MEANS A WHOLE LOT TO EVERYONE INCLUDING ALL OF YOU.ALL OF YOUR FAMLIY & FRIENDS
THAT YOU COULD COUNT ON THROU-GHT THE ROGHT OF TIMES .WILL BE THERE FOR YOU TO HELP YOU OUT &
TO LOOK BACK AT ALL THE WONDER-FUL MEMORIES YOU ALL SPENT TOG- ETHER.I WANT TO EXPRESS MY CO-NDOLENCES TO ALL OF YOU,SORRY
FOR YOUR LOST OF A GREAT PERSON
WHO MEANS A WHOLE LOT TO EVER-YONE INCULDING ALL OF YOU.JOE IS
LOOKING DOWN ON ALL OF YOU THAT HE DO NOT WANT ANYTHING
TO HAPPEN TO ALL OF YOU.HE'S
YOUR GUARDIN ANGEL THAT LEAVE YOU SIGNS THAT HE'S LOOKING OUT
FOR ALL OF YOU AT ALL TIMES.I WANT TO WISH ALL OF YOU A NICE
DAY EVERYDAY TO GET YOU THROG-HT THE ROUGH OF TIMES.
'' WIN '' HAMMER
K Hannon
March 13, 2008
I met Joe at the 2006 HOF Fantasy camp. I knew him only a short time, but- he was a special person that has forever touched my life. I remember him as a person who valued life and brought life to any party or any room. He and Phils apparent special bond, was heartwarming to say the least. Every time we heard a group of people with roaring laughter, we at HOF fantasy camp knew that Joe and/or Phil was to blame. I have not attended a fantasy camp since that year, but I can only imagine how different it was without him. I feel blessed that I had the oppourtunity to meet such a wonderful man (and talented golfer).
My heart is with Joe and his family.
jj niekro
February 14, 2008
i love you dad. YOU where the best thing that ever happend to me.you are the best. i love you with all my heart.love jj
vic stanchina
November 13, 2007
I'll always remember Joe and the years weplayed together
Loremil Jensen
March 8, 2007
Natalie,
I don't know if you remember me but we went to school together. (Lakeland Highlands Jr High and Kathleen High School C/O 1991) I don't know why, but you popped up into my mind today and I decided to look you up. And I found out about your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you and my family. I am sorry I know this is late. I also saw that you got married. Congratulations. I wish you and your husband a lifetime of love and happiness.
All my best,
Loremil Tan Jensen
JJ NIEKRO
February 20, 2007
I love you dad. I WILL MISS YOU
FOREVER.YOU ARE THE BEST.
Margie Hardy
December 12, 2006
Phyllis,
A very long time ago we were across the cul-de-sac neighbors in Lawrenceville, GA. At one of your family gatherings, both your brothers signed baseball cards for my children. That was so kind of them. I will keep you & your family in my thoughts & prayers, and hope that each of you are able to find a way to enjoy this holiday season.
Sincerely,
Margie Hardy
JUNE BENVENUTO
November 8, 2006
Dear Debbie & JJ,
I am so very sorry about Joe. My heart and my prayers go out to you and JJ, and to the whole Niekro Family. I don't know if you remember me, but we hung out in "East Street"(Palisades Park, NJ), with Joe, Phil, George,Willie & everyone else. We also went to Boston to watch Joe play one weekend. I just want you to know that you and Joe have always been in my thoughts and included in many conversations whenever talking about "the good old times".
Debbie,take care of yourself and JJ.
June Benvenuto
Fairview, NJ 07022
Dee Euken
November 5, 2006
Dear Lance, Natalie, JJ and Debra,
You don't know me, but when Joe used to hunt deer up in Pennsylvania, my husband met him walking along the railroad tracks. He got lost in the woods. At that time, my husband, Stan, worked for the railroad. They introduced each other and Stan brought him home to dinner. After that, they became such good friends and we all became friends with the whole Niekro family. Sadley, Stan also passed away on May 5, 2006, a little less than six months apart. On behalf of my children and myself, Angela, and Tony, we offer our sincerest sympathy to all of you. May God bless all of you and keep you. I bet Stan and Joe met up there, and are teasing each other just as they used to down here. May God rest both their souls.
Leah (Herig) Ostroff
November 5, 2006
Nancy, Natalie, & Lance
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time. There is nothing that can be said or done to ease your sorrow but know that many people care for you and pray for your healing.
Nancy Niekro
November 4, 2006
November 2, 2006
Natalie and Lance, your Dad gave me the ultimate gifts when you entered this world. I was truly blessed when he chose me to be your Mom and we both raised you with unlimited love and understanding. Nothing will ever take away the pain of the loss you are experiencing, but please know that I will walk by your side every step of the way to offer whatever you need to help you through life.
Your Dad is celebrating with the other angels and filling them with stories about his amazing children. You have made us both so very proud and we love you more than you could ever imagine.
We gave you the love, and God will give you the strength you need to carry on and accomplish all the wonderful things you have planned. Natalie, you will be the most beautiful bride anyone could imagine and your Dad will have the best seat in the house on that special day. We will all feel his presence and know that he is the proudest father ever. Lance, your Dad will be with you every minute of every day, and you now have an incredible advantage on the baseball field because you have a very special angel on your shoulder.
Stay strong and know that our love for you is immeasureable and unconditional. Take comfort in all the wonderful memories that will remain vivid in your hearts and minds.
Your loving Mother (Lakeland, FL )
Contact me
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Terri Mitchell (Leonard)
November 3, 2006
My sympathy to the Niekro family.....great baseball family and a shock to us. Terri (Padre employee and former waitress that waited on many players in the 70's) and her daughters
Heather Patton
November 3, 2006
To The Niekro Family,
We are all so sorry for your loss of Joe. We know what you are going through as we lost a dad & a husband just last year. Our thoughts & prayers are with you. And know we are all here for you anytime.
Love The Patton Family
Your loving Mother
November 2, 2006
Natalie and Lance, your Dad gave me the ultimate gifts when you entered this world. I was truly blessed when he chose me to be your Mom and we both raised you with unlimited love and understanding. Nothing will ever take away the pain of the loss you are experiencing, but please know that I will walk by your side every step of the way to offer whatever you need to help you through life.
Your Dad is celebrating with the other angels and filling them with stories about his amazing children. You have made us both so very proud and we love you more than you could ever imagine.
We gave you the love, and God will give you the strength you need to carry on and accomplish all the wonderful things you have planned. Natalie, you will be the most beautiful bride anyone could imagine and your Dad will have the best seat in the house on that special day. We will all feel his presence and know that he is the proudest father ever. Lance, your Dad will be with you every minute of every day, and you now have an incredible advantage on the baseball field because you have a very special angel on your shoulder.
Stay strong and know that our love for you is immeasureable and unconditional. Take comfort in all the wonderful memories that will remain vivid in your hearts and minds.
John Piccin
November 2, 2006
Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of you. We truly share your grief.
What do you say when your childhood hero passes away? He was a true gentleman. I have so many great memories of Joe, but probably the best was when I was a little boy, about 9 years old. Joe was in town and came down to visit my parents (in the post office house). He asked me if I wanted to pass ball with him. I told him that I would love to, but had to deliver newspapers around town. He volunteered to help me deliver the papers, so we could get home and pass ball! How many adults, let alone professional athletes would do that today?
Lance, it was great to meet you in San Francisco. You seem to be following in your father's "big shoes". Thank you, and thank you for being someone that my son, Wil, can have as a true childhood hero.
Your all are in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
John, Beth and Wil Piccin
Joe & Regina (Kubic) Sikora
November 1, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time
Barb (DaRe) Bickham
November 1, 2006
Please accept my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I know you have many wonderful memories of Joe, and hopefully, in time, will help ease your pain. My prayers are with you and your family.
Casey Chandler
November 1, 2006
Nancy, Lance, & Natalie ~ I am so terribly sorry to hear of your loss. I know there are no words of comfort that I can offer to make things better but please know that there are many friends and family that are praying for you and that love you all very much. ~ God Bless ~ Love, Casey
Jerome Cabeen
November 1, 2006
You can´t think of the Astros of the late 70´s and early 80´s without thinking of Joe Niekro. Say it ain´t so Joe.....we will miss you but the memories will always prevail. God bless you and your family and throw one of those nasty knuckleballs to Ol´Saint Pete for me. You will always be an ASTRO !
HELEN DUBIL
November 1, 2006
JOE YOU WERE A GUY THAT THE ENTIRE DUBIL FAMILY JUST THOUGHT KINDLY AND GREATFUL OF YOU A PERSON WHO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN, YOU WILL
LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER,PLEASE ACCEPT OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY,
FROM THE ENTIRE DUBIL FAMILY
NANCY @THEO DUBIL
October 31, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Tom & Charlotte Conroy
October 31, 2006
Our thoughts are prayers are with all of the family.
Brian Schambach
October 31, 2006
ToThe Niekro Family,
Our deepest sympathy to all of you on Joe's sudden passing. All of us in the Ohio Valley have appreciated and enjoyed Joe's company over the years. I especially appreciated his sense of humor and baseball trivia. Overiding all of that was Joe's love for his family and Mother. The action that stands out the most is Joe's Mom telling me last year that her son called her every morning around 10am and he hasnt missed a day for years !!
The Schambach Family
Patrick Reilly
October 31, 2006
I loved to talk baseball with Joe down at the bull pen at spring training games in FLA. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Niekro family. RIP Joe.
Nikki Ann Cable
October 31, 2006
I knew Joe from his days at West Liberty and can remember him playing ball there. Back then, we knew he was going places.
I haven't seen him for many years, but remember him well. We were the same age. A very nice guy and I am shocked at his passing. My deepest sympathies go out to his children and his wife. What an outstanding athlete he was! I have been thinking of him since I first heard this on the radio a few days ago. Blessings to the family.
George & Joan Denny
October 31, 2006
Lance & Natalie our prayers and thougts are with you. We were so sorry to hear about your Dad. May God be with you.
Ray Howard
October 31, 2006
Godspeed, Joe!
Edwyna Humperdinck
October 31, 2006
My deepest sympathy to the family. He was a great ballplayer during his time and he will be missed by many.
Jon Cabeen
October 31, 2006
To Niekro family:
What great memories Joe has left for me! Joe's ability and dedication made for many great nights in the old Astrodome here in Houston Texas. I believe Joe had the best knuckleball of all time. I loved to watch the best hitters in the National League strike out chasing that funky pitch. He left us too soon, a great loss to Astro fans and Major League Baseball. God bless Joe Niekro!
Robin Pels
October 31, 2006
Dear Natalie, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. No words will ever help your broken heart but please know I am thinking of you and your family.
Robin Pels
Joe Zaboroski
October 30, 2006
To the entire Niekro Family,
As I reminisce about our childhood and adolescent years, I know that Joe will be gone but never forgotten.
Please accept our deepest sympathies for your loss.
The Zaboroski Family, Jenny, Joe, Christel, Jamie, and Mark.
Jared Kremer
October 30, 2006
Lance & Family, We are sorry to hear about your loss. Joe was such a tremendous person all around with huge heart for all of us. He will be dearly missed. Please accept the Kremer's deepest sympathy and we will keep your family in our prayers.
Barry McClure
October 30, 2006
To the Niekro family. Saturday morning was to be a day of reading about the World Series but instead I was stunned by the news of one of my favorite players passing. My heart goes out to you. I am a 44 year old man who sometimes forgets he is not a 14 year old kid still pulling for Joe & Phil to win every time they pitch. Thank you for the wonderful memories of a childhood. God bless you all in this time of sadness. My heart goes out to you.
Zina Lopez
October 30, 2006
Sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers
Dave Martinkowski (Martinkosky)
October 30, 2006
To all the Niekro family, our deepest sympathies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all - rest assured that today heaven is a better place and take comfort in knowing that Joe Niekro impacted the lives of so many people.
Cindy and George Hummel
October 30, 2006
To The Niekro Family:
I was the baseball coach at Lakeland High (1973-1983). Joe and I became friends as he worked with our players. I think it helped him
as well as us. We spent many an afternoon on the practice field which lead to many weekends sharing
our families and a fishing hole/anywhere in the state. I am
sure many, if not all, have heard the stories he loved to tell. Dick Myers and I were not afraid of anything in the Everglades or the pits until we went with Joe. Of coarse the stories got bigger and better. Natalie and Lance, you may not remember Cindy and I but we watched you grow and do all the things your Mom and Dad said not to do. We love you both, we love your Dad and Mom and your Dad's new partner and brother.
We are going to miss our friend.
Love,
Cindy and George Hummel
October 30, 2006
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Joe and his brother Phil were greatest baseball players of all time.
Stacy Sercus
October 30, 2006
Natalie and Family-
My deepest sympathy for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Richard Brown
October 30, 2006
To The Niekro Family:
I am saddened for your loss. Joe Niekro was one of my favorite ballplayers, but he was more than that. He was the family man that you knew and loved. I once got an autograph from him. He and his brother Phil are truly greats of the game. Thanks Joe. You've been called to play on the Lord's ballfield.
Richard Hogan
October 30, 2006
My prayers and thoughts are with the Niekro family. As a Minnesota Twin fan, Mr Niekro played an important part of us winning the Series. We thank you for sharing him with us fans. I just wish I could've thanked him in person for playing such an important and vital role in our win. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Rick ad Cecilia Estes
October 30, 2006
Debra, we had the great honor to meet Joe in St. Croix. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this time of your loss.
Andrea Harris
October 30, 2006
To Joe's family, Please accept my deepest sympathy. Joe was one of the funniest and warmest people I ever knew and his passing was such a shock to all of us who looked up to him. We were neighbors in Lakeland and have many wonderful memories. Know our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.
Andie Harris and the entire Griffin and Scott family.
Dennis Haymore
October 30, 2006
I'm a huge baseball fan and a huge Joe Niekro fan
Thanks for the memories, Joe
Karen Williams
October 30, 2006
Deepest Sympathy to the Niekro Family. I never knew you or your family, but I always heard stories about you and your family growing up in Lansing from my Mother (Mary Dolores Carbol)
ann gonzalez
October 30, 2006
nancy , natalie,lance and family .... i cannot tell you how sorry we are for your loss ,,,joe was a great guy with a huge personality that even if you didnt know him once you made eye contact with him he treated you like he was your best friend ... our thoughts and prayers are with you all ,,, an astro and friend for ever,,,,, tony ,ann ,young tony and alison gonzalez
COLLEEN IVAN
October 30, 2006
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY
Cheryl Janiszewski Brothers & Family
October 30, 2006
You all are in our Prayers
Lisa Belvin
October 30, 2006
Lance, Natalie, JJ, Phil & Family, and Debra,
Joe was a very special and kind person. He will be missed by many.
Praying for your comfort and peace at this difficult time. May God bless and keep each of you always.
Lisa & Conor Belvin
Shelley Shipe
October 30, 2006
God Bless you and your family at this time in your lives. I am saddened by the loss of Joe. I knew him when he played for the Detroit Tigers #19.
Scott Bikowski
October 30, 2006
Lance and family, My entire family, Stephanie and I are truly sorry for your loss. We want to express our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. Joe was a wonderful energetic man and he will be greatly missed.
Scotty Bikowski and family
Mary & Jeep White
October 30, 2006
To all the Niekro family we express our deepest sympathy. Knowing this family has created a lifetime of memories for Mary and myself. Joe was a fun loving and caring, giant of a man. We will never forget all the great times we had with Joe.
We wish we could be with the family at this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Niekro family. With love, Mary & "Jeep" White
Jennifer, Joe, Lindsey & Ashley Martin
October 30, 2006
Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. My family back in Lansing, OH is also praying for you at this time.
Staci Hunt
October 30, 2006
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
(sister of Corey Perkins)
eddie cardieri
October 30, 2006
Lance, Nancy and the entire Niekro family--my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time as I can only imagine just how difficult this must be--stay strong and God Bless!
Richard Da Re & Family
October 30, 2006
Our prayers are with you.
Chris & Stephanie Tibbetts
October 30, 2006
Lance's dad had such a glow of confidence. I knew he was special when he and his family took the time for a photo, just b/c his son asked. At Southern Joe played his role as proud father like a "Big Leager!"
RIP, Mr. Niek's one last thing tell Smalls' to get his glove You'll hit him fungo.
Larry Werstler
October 30, 2006
As a salesman I traveled through Martins Ferry quite often and always enjoyed my visits with Joe and Phil's parents. They were so proud of their sons and family. They enjoyed the times when Joe and Phil would bring the families home with sleeping bags and sleep out in the back yard. Joe Sr would have both the Cleveland Indians and New York Yankees uniforms on his bed. With wonderful parents like these, one felt as though they knew the entire Niekro family. They also shared how the boys gave back so much to the community each year. Our condolences to the Niekro family during this difficult time.
Mary Melton
October 30, 2006
Phil & family
Please know that all of you have our deepest sympathy. We all loved Joe and had many fun times as teenagers growing up in the "Valley". Our love and prayers to the Niekro's.
Mary Ballog-Melton
Patti and Bill Sullivan
October 30, 2006
Dear Debbie and family, We had the pleasure of golfing with Joe in St. Croix for the Queen Louise charity event for two years. We enjoyed and remember his wonderful sense of humor, his great stories, and his ability to make everyone feel special. We also remember how much and how lovingly he spoke of you and his children. Our thoughts are with you. Fondly, Patti and Bill Sullivan
Betty Denny Mendell
October 30, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Gary & Barb Duncan (Lindsie's parents)
October 30, 2006
Lance, We're so very sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers.
Jean Gilliland
October 29, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Niekro family.
Steve Martino
October 29, 2006
I had the pleasure of spending 2 years in Lakeland at Florida Southern College and hanging around with "knucksie". I will never forget the first day I met him when his nephew P.T. Dillmore asked me if I wanted to go see his uncle after practice. I was in shock as we went into his home. From that day on he was a great friend to me and always had an open door for any of the Florida Southern players. I also remember Lance and Natalie when they were little kids. I can feel their sorrow for they have lost a great man and father. My condolences to the entire Niekro family.
Chad Hobbs
October 29, 2006
Dear Phyllis, Ed, Joe Dillmore, and the Niekro family. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this trying time. I will never forget the great things you all did for me when I was a kid. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
Don Cash
October 29, 2006
Our sympathy to the entire Niekro family. Their parents ,Phil Sr. and Ivy taught their children to live with respect and class and they followed those lessons in everything they did. They have never forgotten where they came from and Joe will be missed by his family and friends in the Lansing and Bridgeport area, his hometown. It is a shock to all of us in the entire area, he will be missed -God bless
Liz Kelly
October 29, 2006
Natalie & Lance
Please know that you two are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
Darrel Chaney
October 29, 2006
To the Niekro family,
We are so saddened by your loss. It was an honor to play against Joe and become friends and team mates of the Niekro family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and will be, forever.
May the comfort and peace that only the Lord can give, be with you.
Darrel and Cindy Chaney
Tim, Sharon, Tiffany, and Jennifer Adams
October 29, 2006
Dear Phyllis, Ed, and the Niekro family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow.
Kay
October 29, 2006
Prayers and thoughts to the entire Niekro family. I've been an avid Braves fan since the late 60's. The Niekro name, both brothers, are known as great pitchers and just plain 'good folks'.
A W
October 29, 2006
The Niekro family is in our thoughts and prayers. Sorry for your loss.
Dave Clark
October 29, 2006
I never got the chance to talk to Joe, even though I was able to track down and talk to just about every other big-name knuckleball pitcher. I suppose I could have, but I always sensed that Joe was a family man who just happened to have an unusually public career, and that deserved respect. It's too bad that many of us are learning the depth of his life story now, too late to express to him our admiration and appreciation of him as a ballplayer and family man.
My father gave us his last bit of advice in his last days: carry on. Whether we knew Joe at all or intimately as a player, friend, or family member, that's an honorable way for any of us to remember him.
JOHN AND GEORGANNA BIKOWSKI
October 29, 2006
DEAR LANCE, OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY IS WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY DURING THIS SAD TIME. YOUR DAD WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED IN THE SPORTS WORLD. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Carolyn Jackson
October 29, 2006
Lance, I knew your dad simply as the father of a son playing on a South Lakeland baseball team with my son. Then I learned that he was famous. And then, I became even more impressed with your dad. He never 'acted famous' but rather always unassuming. During the games, he was always along the fence line and very quietly observing and probably offering guidance to you. He often told the whole team that he would be coming to the park on the weekend to work with you, Lance, and if anyone else wanted to come out and practice, he would be glad to have them come. My son, Todd Jackson, did exactly that on many occasions. Your dad could have dedicated his time to just you - but he offered to share himself with all the boys on the team. I very much admired your dad's style, Lance!!! You have many, many reasons to have wonderful memories of your dad. Yes, absolutely his baseball fame but in my mind, more importantly, the way he treated the boys on that baseball team ! Carolyn Jackson, Lakeland, Florida
Ed & Beverly Lezaj
October 29, 2006
To the Niekro Family you are in our thoughts and prayers. Phil, we promise we'll send some "pierogies" to heaven this year. God Bless you.
Tom
October 29, 2006
After his nail file incident, I remember Joe being on Letterman's show wearing a utility belt of emery boards, Vaseline and other things. Dave loved it. Joe's wit, and making time for the fans, made him popular wherever he went. My sympathies go out to one of sports' finest families, the Niekros.
Jim, Kathy, Erin and Jimmy Machmiller
October 29, 2006
An absolute shock. Our family is just heart broken over his passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Debbie, JJ and to the rest of the Niekro family. Joe was such a fun-loving guy to be around and he will be missed.
Jimmy and Vicki Copeland
October 29, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Niekro family during this very difficult time.
mike smith
October 29, 2006
rest in peace joe
John Brock
October 29, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
John Baker
October 28, 2006
I met Joe in October,2005 at the first Hall of Fame baseball fantasy camp in Cooperstown, NY.
Joe and Phil were introduced by Dale Petrovsky as the "winningest brother combination in the history of the game with 500 total victories". Joe and Phil, corrected Dale by responding in unison " 539 wins " ! Yes you could say he was competitive. During the camp, when other pitchers were tossing the ball to the plate, Joe was "bringing the heat ".
I have known his brother Phil for 35 years, Joe for only a year. I will miss him terribly. May his memory forever be a blessing to his family and friends.
Shirley & Aaron Bratcher
October 28, 2006
May God keep and bless your family in this time of sorrow.
James Hendershott
October 28, 2006
I'm not sure what to say except that when I think of legendary Braves players you are the first one to come to mind. You showed baseball how a real player plays and thank you for many wonderful nights in Fulton County Stadium. God speed and have fun playing with all of the other legendary ball players up in Heaven.
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How to support Joe's loved ones
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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.
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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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