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Johnny Podres Obituary
A spokesman for Glens Falls Hospital confirmed Podres' death but said he didn't know any details.
The left-hander was picked for four All-Star games and was the first Most Valuable Player in World Series history. He became a hero to every baseball fan in Brooklyn when the Dodgers ended decades of frustration by beating the Yankees to win the World Series.
It was the first time a team had won a best-of-seven World Series after losing the first two games, and it was Brooklyn's only World Series victory. The Dodgers moved to Los Angeles after the 1957 season.
The Dodgers lost the first two games of at Yankee Stadium, then the Dodgers won the third 8-3 at Ebbets Field. Podres, going the distance on his 23rd birthday, scattered seven hits.
In the climactic seventh game, at Yankee Stadium, Podres shut out New York 2-0 on eight hits, relying on his fastball and a deceptive changeup.
As the story goes, Podres told his teammates to get him just one run and the Dodgers would win Game 7. They got him two, and the franchise celebrated its first and only championship while playing in Brooklyn.
Years later, Podres was uncertain he made such a brash statement.
"I don't know if I said it or not. That's what they said I said," a grinning Podres recalled in 2005. "Probably young and dumb - something like that would haunt you your whole life. ... You put on a big league uniform, you've got to think you're pretty good."
Tommy Byrne, the losing pitcher in that game, died Dec. 20.
Podres' career spanned 15 years with the Dodgers in Brooklyn and Los Angeles, the Detroit Tigers and San Diego Padres. He retired in 1969 at age 36 with a lifetime record of 148-116.
Podres also served as a pitching coach when he was older, helping develop Frank Viola when he was with the Minnesota Twins and Curt Schilling when he was on the Philadelphia Phillies staff.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
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108 Entries
bernie cheach campbull
February 1, 2024
brooklyn ferries knight ferries / lil brother erik wadd smith/ dogs seargents / piler co ethans left wutchu talkin scatt fites hel port richmonf fancy p / myself you / k kovax dr armory lost et huey pecks alley oo oop agh erik its yurs wadd/ reasons aggghhh gerry coldmun and t.. spagetti biz strapose
Bob Rossomondo
August 7, 2019
That 1955 World Series was a classic and Johnny certainly deserved to be the 1st ever Sport Magazine SeriesMVP. What a gritty performance in game 7 by the 23 year old southpaw. The beauty of baseball are the memories created. Thanks for your contribution Johnny !
Harry Simpson
January 13, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Fair winds and following seas sailor.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
January 1, 2015
I,m a month older than Johnny Podres. I"m from Hazard I also was lucky enough to see him play several times. It was obvious he was destined for the Big Leagues.
Truman Fields
Rt.#1 Hazard, Ky.
How you can show support
Ed Oliver
October 1, 2014
I remember my mom would set up her ironing board in front of the TV to watch the Dodgers play. I was just 10 years old but still remember that series. I wish I could find my old Brooklyn Dodgers players cards... Sad to learn of Johnny's passing.......truly the end of an era. I grew up in New Jersey and each years my uncle would take me to a Brooklyn Dodgers game in Ebbets fields....Condolences to Johnny's family.
Harold L. Morgan
July 25, 2012
My firsthand knowledge of Johnny was in 1950 when he played with the Hazard, Ky."Bombers" of the Mountain States league.The team was owned by Mr. Mac Smith who owned several Coal Mines.I worked for Mr. Smith in a Commissary that he also owned. Mr. Smith thought Johnny was the greatest and knew also that he had great potential.My father, Robert P. Morgan was a carpenter and welder for Mr. Smith. He became very attached to Johnny and also saw his potential.Johnny was feeling down on himself one day and was watching my dad build a backstop for the pitchers. Johnny approached my dad and asked, Mr. Morgan would you teach me how to weld? It startled my dad and his immediate response to Johnny was,Johnny why would you want to learn this trade? Johnny replied, I cannot live on this kind of money.My dad really liked Johnny and encouraged him to hang in.Johnny and I were the same age.I was born August 25, 1932.The people of Eastern, Ky.so admired Johnny for his baseball talent and his friendliness.God bless all the Podres. Harold L. Morgan
mitch skopp
April 13, 2012
He was my hero growing up in Brooklyn I later moved to philly I was lucky to meet him after a game at the bar where they would go he signed the photo and a ball,it hangs in my den along with a team signed,ball I miss them all best wishes Mitch skopp 7959,hatteras rd Orlando Florida
Nick Gamvas
April 7, 2011
Memory Eternal!
Colonel Bill Davis, USA (Ret)
August 20, 2008
To the Podres Family,
Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. I was the batboy/clubhouse boy in Shibe Park in Philadelphia from 1967 to 1971 and had the good fortune to know Johnny when he played for San Diego in 1969. Truly a great man in all aspects. He will missed but his legacy will continue for years to come. God bless you all.
Mark barcomb
February 11, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
raymond barcomb sr.
February 9, 2008
very sorry to here of johnnys passing.will always remmember the fun we had playing baseball for good old mineville high.my symphthy goes out to the family.
raymond barcomb sr.
Joyce m\Moyer
January 28, 2008
Johnny Podres is the reason I follow baseball. I was in 9th grade in 1955. We will miss a great man. JAM
Dorothy Brace-Steitz
January 21, 2008
My dad Whitey Brace always talk about Johnny Podres and how great a man he was. My dad said they were good friends from the time they were kids,in that small town I grew up in. It is truly a great sadness to hear he is gone.
Gail LaConte
January 20, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Russell Flansburg
January 19, 2008
Johnny,
Thanks for staying to your roots. You will always be remembered for that great day in 55 in Brooklyn and for all the guidance you gave to future stars in the baseball world.You will be missed by all in the baseball community,players and fans alike.
Randy Salerno
January 19, 2008
My condolences to Joan , Joe and John Jr. I will never forget talking with Joan at the Moriah High School baseball games where I was a teammate of Joey's, she is a wonderful lady. At an early age I loved the game of baseball because of Johnny and my father. They were both drafted by a Dodger scout named Alex Isabell, the stories of them playing ball for the Dodgers will be entrenched in my mind forever. While playing H.S. and Collge baseball Johnny gave me a used catchers mitt which was used by Carlton Fisk/ Bob Montgomery. For John to take the time to think of me was just amazing. While Coaching for the Twins and Phillies John asked me to call him while out on the west coast for tickets. I will never forget talking to him on the phone and on the field. I remember Joan and John telling me to yell "Elmer' to get his attention while he was on the field. While talking to John the conversation was not only about baseball but about his family and the people of Witherbee, Mineville, Moriah and Port Henry. What a FATHER, MENTOR, FRIEND and ATHLETE Johnny was, but his everlasting charisma made me and thousands of baseball fans feel special. Thank you "POD"
January 19, 2008
TO THE PODRES FAMILY- ALTHOUGH I NEVER HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET YOU ALL PERSONALLY, I FELT A VERY CLOSE CONNCECTION THIS WEEK WHN I HEARD OF JOHNNY'S PASSING. MY MOM, WHO LIVES IN GLENS FALLS WHERE WE GRE UP, WAS QUICK TO PASS ON TO ME HER STORY OF OCTOBER 4, 1955. SH PLACED ME IN MY PLAY PEN- I WAS A YEAR AND A HALF OLD- AND TURNED ON THE TV TO WATCH THE WORLD SERIES GAME THAT JOHNNY PADRES WAS PITCHING, A LOCAL BOY FROM UP NORTH. WHEN THE FINAL OUT WAS CALLED AND WE BOTH SAW JOHNNY JUMPING INTO THE ARMS OF HIS CATCHER, WE BOTH CLAPPED AND CHEERED FOR ALL OF US AND FOR ALL OF NEW YORK-- AND MY MOM SAYS THAT WAS BEFORE SHE REALLY GOT "into baseball".
MY DAD GRADUATED FROM ST. MARYS ACADEMY IN THE EARLY 1940'S AND WAS OFFERED A TRYOUT AS A RIGHT HANDED PITCHER WITH THE BROOKLYN DODGERS- QUITE A THRILL FOR A KID FROM ST. MARYS RIGHT OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL. HOWEVER, THE WAR INTERVENED AND FOUR YEARS LATER, WHEN HE GOT OUT OF THE SERVICE, HE CHOSE TO TAKE THE GI BILL AND GO TO FORDHAM RAHTER THAN TRY TO MAKE THE TEAM AGAIN.
MY MOM AND DAD WERE LIFE LONG DODGER FANS, GOING TO VERO BEACH FLORIFA EVERY YEAR FOR SPRING TRAINING TO WATCH THE BOYS IN BLUE GET RDY FOR ANOTHER SEASON. I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT MY DAD WOULD HAVE WELCOMED JOHNNY WITH OPEN ARMS IN HEAVEN THIS WEEK AND THEY ARE NO DOUBT SHARING MANY PITCHING, BASEBALL, ADN DODGER STORIES AS WE SPEAK. THEY WERE BOTH TRULY GIFTED ATHLETES AND WONDERFUL GENTLEMEN- THEY DONT MAKE EM LIKE THAT ANYMORE.
TAKE CARE PODRES AND BE STRONG LIKE DAD-
PS DAD AND MOM ARE BOB AND MARTHA MCCARTHY, GLENS FALLS NY
SINCERELY,
ELLEN MCCARTHY CLEARY
ALEXANDRIA, VA.
Larry Dahlin
January 19, 2008
My condolences go out to the Podres family. My family moved to Witherbee in 1940 and Johnny and I became classmates at the Mineville School. My Dad worked for Republic Steel and we lived in a company owned house on Bridal Lane in Witherbee. Often, Johnny would come by and we would go out to the field behind the house, mow a space for a baseball field and began playing. Things were rather primitive back then, taped up balls and bats, etc. I moved from Witherbee in 1945, lost contact with Johnny until 1957 when I learned that he was pitching in an exhibition game at old Griffith Stadium in D. C. I went to the game and was able to speak to him, briefly, after the game. Johnny was, no doubt, the epitome of the American Dream, having risen from small town Mineville/Witherbee to become a baseball legend, beloved by so many. I consider it a privilege to have known him, and am saddened by the loss of a friend from way back. God Bless!
Gary Wykes
January 19, 2008
Joni,Joe,John and Family.
Our sincerest condolences, so sorry that we were not able to attend John's services, but please know that we were there in heart.
The Wykes, Gary, Delores and Becki
Dawn Ashe-Boyea
January 18, 2008
Joni,Joe,John Jr,
My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. Friends and neighbors as i was growing up,your family had a very special place in our hearts. John and Anna, God Bless and Rest in Peace.
Donna Pooler Pond
January 17, 2008
My thoughts go out to the entire Padres family. My dad (Lyman "Pinky" Pooler) played ball against Johnny back in high school and has shared many stories about how great a person he was on and off the field. Those stories have helped to instill a great love for baseball and for that I thank you all.
Kathleen Fernandez-Thompson
January 17, 2008
Joan, Joey and John: Our deepest condolences to you and yours. I have a picture on my shelf of my Dad (Louie), your Dad (Johnny) and Ted Williams on one of my parents trips to Florida for Spring training. I will always treasure it. May peace be with you all. Kathleen Fernandez-Thompson
Mindy LaVine
January 17, 2008
Dear Joni and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
Sincerely,
Mindy & Jeff LaVine
Lisa Dariano-Lamborn
January 17, 2008
I would like to say I am deeply sorry to the family of Johnny. When he had open heart surgery at Ellis Hospital I helped take care of him after ICU. He was nice, professional and will be missed.
Marjorie Federick
January 17, 2008
My Deepest sympathy! Johnny worked with me at the Al-bur-norm Hotel. I worked with Joni at Frontier Town.
Fondly,
Marjorie Richardson Frederick
Don Lyerly
January 16, 2008
Joe, Trish, and the rest of the Podres family:
I'm deeply sorry for your loss. The comments I have read only confirm what I already knew: Johnny Podres is a legend! He gave so many people such good memories that will last forever.
The Hollowoods- Brien,Cindy, Colleen and Keelin
January 16, 2008
Joan,
We are thinking about you and your family during this very difficult time.Thanks,too for arranging the autograph for my dad last year on the photo that hung in our family home for over 50 years...Johnny's signature helped my dad fondly recall that magical day in 1955.
Donald Orr
January 16, 2008
Dear Joe and Mrs. Podres,
My deepest sympathy. Joe I'll never forget the time we went to Yankee Stadium to see the Twins. Thanks for the memory.
Love,
Donald Orr (from B.K.)
John Cameron
January 16, 2008
I will keep the Podres family in my thoughts and prayers.
Every time I think about what Johnny Podres did for Brooklyn, I get goose bumps.
My mom was born and raised in Lyon Mountain NY, another mining town that was crazy for baseball. Many of my distant relatives played ball against Mineville and knew Johnny from the old days. My cousin is Tommy Kowalowski, who was a pro cathcher in the Yankees organization for many years.
It is a deep sense of pride for the mining towns up north to remember how a north country mining town kid brought Brookyln it's well deserved world championship.
Charlie Turek
January 16, 2008
I was 13 in 1955 and remember listening to the game with my grandfather, Lester Flint. Johnny was pitching and it was a GREAT DAY. The Dodgers won 2-0.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Charlie
MV 1960
SHARON AND BOB NEWTON
January 16, 2008
DEAR JOAN, JOE, AND JOHN. OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY, THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU FOR THE LOSS OF SUCH A GOOD MAN, AS YOUR HUSBAND AND FATHER. MY HUSBAND BOB WILL NEVER FORGET THE DAY HE WAS DRIVING ON THE NORTHWAY AND A CAR PASSED HIM WITH LICENSE PLATE MVP55 AND A HAND CAME UP AND WAVED FROM THE BACK SEAT. IT WASN'T TILL HE GOT HOME THAT DAY AND FOUND JAMIE OUR SON, WAITING FOR HIM TO TELL HIM THAT IT WAS HIM WHO WAVED TO HIM AND THAT HE HAD GONE TO THE TRACK THAT DAY WITH THE PODRES AND HAD ALSO WON BIG THAT DAY, SO IT WAS A CONTIUNED JOKE TILL THIS DAY ABOUT THE HANDWAVE FROM MVP55. IT WAS A PRIVILEGE ALWAYS TO HAVE KNOWN THE FAMILY AND OUR TIMES AT SMA. WISHING YOU ALL COMFORT IN THE LOVE THAT WILL CONTINUE FOREVER AND THE MEMORIES THAT WILL LIVE ALWAYS IN YOUR HEARTS FOR JOHN. LOVE SHARON AND BOB NEWTON AND FAMILY
charlene hart
January 16, 2008
Having spent summers in the Witherbee/Mineville area, I can remember how proud of John the entire area was when a national magazine featured him on the cover surrounded by local boys: one of which was related to me. He brought pride and honor to the North Country and his name will always be remembered.
Marge Herzig-Ward
January 16, 2008
Johnny, I will remember you always. I was the girl from a Brooklyn,NY high school that followed you where ever you were appearing. I wore the purple sweater with your name in white felt letters across the back of it. I spoke with you down at the fence in Ebbets Field.I was there when you appeared at The Brooklyn Public Library at Eastern Parkway,Brooklyn,NY. At that library I can remember when you mouthed to me "Do you like me"? I shook my head YES!. Born in Brooklyn, always a Brooklynite. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.
Jim Ohlsen
January 16, 2008
1955 w.s.(10 years old)father from flatbush, we didn,t miss a pitch,Dodger forever! John signed a ball for aunt Pat Garvey of Mineville given to me wow! 1988 called the Dodgers and asked if they knew where Mr. Podres was and was given his number in Arizona.We called, he answered. We asked if he remembered Pat Garvey, he instantly asked about Charlie Garvey wife Jane and asked how he could help me?I told him I would like to take my 8 year old son to the ws at Dodger stadium. He told us to go to will call window and ask for Podres/Ohlsen tickets. Incredible.second game, bottom of ninth, man on second and Kirk Gibson limps out of the d.o.. I said to our son,"Jim, say a prayer"he made a sign of the cross and looked at me and said "Dad, I said three "OUR FATHERS" two for mr. Gibson to hit a homerun and one for Mr. Podres to say ,thankyou for the tickets! Over the Holidays Jimmy was home and we talked about the game, he reached in his wallet and pulled the ticket stub from that game and with a big smile looked at me and said "thankyou a million times Mr Podres" Because of John that young man , who is now 27 shares a memory with his dad that will last a lifetime! Special beyond belief!Thankyou Johnny you will be in our prayers forever.Our sincerest sympathy to Joan John and Joe and the entire Podres family, he was generous beyond most!
Peter Mends
January 16, 2008
How well we remember Johnny fishing at the bridge on Lincoln Pond in the Summer and Joan teaching the kids how to skate on Rowe pond in the Winter here in Witherbee. John was a great tribute to all of us and will long be remembered. May the memories of John and the special times you shared together be of comfort now and the days ahead bringing peace to your hearts.
Sincerely,
Mr. & Mrs. Peter R. Mends
Witherbee, N.Y.
Gretchen Taylor
January 16, 2008
Dear Joe, Tricia, and family,
My sincere condolences on the loss of your Dad,husband, relative and dear friend to many. He will be remembered by many and forgotten by few! Keep all those great memories alive in your hearts until you meet him again in that big baseball field above! Rest in peace dear Johnny, and say hello to Jimmy for me!
God Bless,
Rick Carpenter
January 16, 2008
Joan and family,
Seeing John and you at the Labor Day parade, brought back a lot of memories from Frontier Town to bowling at the Mineville lanes and seeing John with Jim Fernandez at Lincoln Pond on my way to work . My condolences to you and your family
Kelly Daniels-Hutchins
January 16, 2008
Mrs. Podres and Joe, Im so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband and father. May your memories give you comfort.
Jack Clarkson
January 16, 2008
Great memories of Johnny. I have been a Dodger Fan since the early 50's. He was always one of my favorites. I can still see the shutout of the Yanks in 1955. He was one of the "GOOD OLD BOYS".
My Sympathy to all the the Podres Family.
Jack Clarkson (Dodger Fan Always)
Marcus, Iowa
Don Bates
January 16, 2008
Johnny Podres was a legend not only to the Brooklyn Dodgers, but to baseball itself. The way he played the game and the manner in which he handled his accomplishments were outstanding. BASEBALL SUFFERED A GREAT LOSS THIS WEEK.
Condolenses to Johnny's family, friends and all people who love baseball.
Richard H. Herrick
January 16, 2008
I saw TV World Series in 1955 and 1963.Johnny Podres pitched no run NY Yankees killer and pitched no run 19 inning in 1955 and 1963.
Dale Sprague & family
January 16, 2008
Joe, John Jr., and Joan:
My family and I were deeply saddened to learn of the loss of this great man, sportsman, teacher, and friend to all who knew him. To all of us who grew up in northern New York, Johnny Podres was indeed, our hero. I was fortunate to have had him as a Babe Ruth coach in the summer of '68 (before he went to San Diego) and he taught me more about the game of baseball and the way to play it and teach it than anyone I ever had been around. In my 33 years of teaching and coaching at many levels, what I learned from John has been passed on many times and I still use it today. From 1980 to 1982 I was honored to have coached his sons at Moriah Central HS in Port Henry, New York (two CVAC Champs and Section VII titles). Never have I coached two better young men and student-athletes, a real credit to John and Joan. Joan was always there and always supportive; I know that she called John, then a pitching coach with the Twins, daily to let him know how their boys were doing. He was so proud of those boys and rightfully so! Mere words cannot express my and our nations sorrow at Johns passing, but, all I can think of is that God needed a lefthander right now............and he chose the best, the best there ever was. In peace may he rest, and may the good Lord keep and bless his wonderful family. We all miss him.
Edd McDermott
January 15, 2008
My heartfelt condolences to Joan and her two sons. He thrilled this young kid when I lived on Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn in the fifties. A quick smile a pat on the head sent shivers up my spine. The humblest of heroes is America's greatest loss. May he be in heaven ten minutes before the devil knows he passed. God Bless you Mr. Podres.
Gary Snow
January 15, 2008
I met Johnny back in '74 when my band was on hiatus from Concert Canada. My bass player was from Port Henry so we played a small club in Witherbee to try out new material and have a good time. Johnny shared many stories and impressed me as rock solid guy. I couldn't believe I was talking to a baseball legend and he treated me like I was a somebody. Damn! I think there's so few people like that, I was impressed by his demeanor and dialogue and guess what he didn't spend anytime talking about himself he told some pretty great stories about baseball, he gave me a ton of autographs and asked about where my band was going. This is a great guy, a real American hero and obviously a guy who comes through in a clutch. There are very few people like Johnny Podres.
Victoria Green, RN
January 15, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to your family.I only got to know Johnny in the past couple of years as a patient in the Cardiology office in which I work.It was always a pleasure speaking with him.Even though I was not quite a year old when the Dodgers won the World Series, it was spoken of plenty in our house.I only wish I could have gotten Johnny's autograph for my dad but did not want to seem pretentious in asking him.The last time I saw him was just after his mom passed away and his spirit still seemed to shine despite his loss and his own health in a fragile state.I will truly treasure the short time I was able to know such a celebrity who was down to earth and always had time to talk.God Bless and Keep All of You.
Christopher Barcher
January 15, 2008
I have VERY fond memories of Johnny Podres and his family. He was a Very generous man and he'll be missed. Joey, Johnny and Mrs. Podres, my heart goes out to you....Your in my prayers..He'll never be forgotten
MARK REZEK
January 15, 2008
TO THE PODRES FAMILY,
SO SORRY TO HERE OF YOUR LOSS. MY FATHER BERNARD REZEK THOUGHT THE WORLD OF JOHNNY. THEY BOTH PITCHED TOGETHER FOR THE HAZARD BOMBERS OF THE MOUNTAIN STATES LEAGUE. A DODGER MINOR LEAGUE TEAM BEFORE JOHNNY GOT CALLED UP TO THE PARENT CLUB. MY FATHER NEVER MADE IT TO THE PARENT CLUB. BUT HAD MANY GOOD MEMORIES OF JOHNNY AND "THE GOOD OLD DAYS".
Dan and Keri Rams
January 15, 2008
I wish me, Keri, and Logan could have met him. But i'm glad I got to know him, and all of his history through you Joe. The tickets he got us to games, the tips on the horses, and all of his great quotes that we enjoy when we hang out. Take care.
Al Kern
January 15, 2008
Somewhere in Heaven, it's the bottom of the ninth, two outs, with an 0-2 count to Elston Howard, who is looking for anything but a change-up from Johnny Podres.
Rest in peace, Johnny. Thanks for all the great memories that you gave me as a baseball-loving kid growing up in the Midwest. May God provide comfort to your family.
January 15, 2008
MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. HE WAS A GREAT MAN... MAY YOU BE COMFORTED AT THIS TIME OF SORROW.
melissa palmer
January 15, 2008
To the Podres family: I didnt know him personally,however I had the pleasure of waiting on him a few times. It was such an honor knowing that a baseball hero and legend lived right here in my town. He actually gave me his autograph about 10 years ago. I still have it. Ill cherish it forever. I grew up in a baseball family, my Dad taught little league for years and years. Watching babseball was a big deal to me growing up. I loves listening to my Dad tell stories about all the heroes: Mantle,Dimaggio,Maris and Podres! Rest in Peace Johnny! Im sure you are playing again up in the sky!
A gracious fan,forever!!!!!
Dave and Toni Richards
January 15, 2008
I can recall the excitement and enormity of that historic day in October 1955 when Johnny Podres delivered that elusive championship trophy to his beloved Dodger teammates and to their millions of fans of Brooklyn, New York for the very first time in that franchise's existence. Unless you were a New Yorker of that era there are no words to describe what a collossal sports accomplishment that victory was and how beloved and revered Johnny Podres, No. 45 was viewed. To shutout the Yankees in the seventh game of the series in Yankee Stadium created a celebration in the Borough of Brooklyn that could only be compared to the public elation following our final victory of Japan in August 1945 ending WW II.
Little did I know my wife and I would have the great fortune of meeting this legend in 2007 through Johnny's graciousness to agree to visit a dear friend, Terry Ashe, a life-long Glens Falls native and Dodger fan extrodinaire, who was battling cancer. Even though Johnny was going through some tough medical issues himself he said.."sure I'll go, when do you want me?", I can't tell you how surprised Terry was when he cast his eyes on Johnny and when I asked Terry did he know who this honored guest was he responded "your damn right I know..He's the 1955 World Series MVP and I'm thrilled to have him in our home..how did you ever pull this off?". It was a great meeting just to witness the exchange an dialoque of this no. one fan, Mr. Dodger Blue himself, and the great Johnny Podres, was priceless. In the several months between that meeting in July and Terry's passing in late November, Terry often shared with me how thrilled he was to have met big John and what a kind an generous human being he is. I'm sure there are many similar stories that can be sharred of how generous and giving this wonderful man was. Johnny Podres life was a celebration of how freely he shared his god given talent and friendship with those fortunate enough to have crossed his path. The Podres family is extremely blessed to have had this fine man in their lives. Needless to say, if pride could be measured in dollars and cents they quite possibly could be one of the wealthiest family on the planet. God bless Joan and the entire Podres family and keep them in your comforting arms during their period of bereavement.
With Deepest and Sincere Sympathy,
Mary Gast
January 15, 2008
Dear John Podres family,
Sorry for your loss-he was a great man. He will be missed.
tommy holloman
January 15, 2008
my deepest sympathy..knew johnny thru his brother tom who i met while serving in the USAF in England in 1970..so many great stories...sorry for the loss..
Johnny Joiner
January 15, 2008
God Bless Johnny and the Podres family. He will always be remembered.
Shirley Thau
January 15, 2008
I met Johnny in 1955 when he came up to Montreal Canada to pick up his Corvette which he rec'd from the Hill brothers for winning the'55 World Series. So sorry to hear of his passing. My sincere condolences to his family.
Red Jeffries
January 15, 2008
Joan, I graduated from High School in 1955 and I certainly remember Johnny Podres! I thank you for working with our grandchildren,the LeMaster family of Glens Falls, teaching them to ice skate. We will remember your family in our prayers...
Red and Gardenia Jeffries,Zellwood, Florida
Jeanne Viger Wood
January 15, 2008
To the family of Johnny Podres at your time of sorrow. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you. Remember it's not goodbye it's just goodnight for we shall all meet again.
Richard Leland
January 15, 2008
I never had the pleasure of meeting Johnny Podres, despite living in Glens Falls for 50 years. He was one of my childhood idols when he beat the Yankees and made the Brooklyn Dodgers Champions in 1955, ending years of frustration for us Bum fans.
I did know Jimmy from the Gold Shade, another great guy.
My condolences to his wonderful family.
Sincerely,
Dick Leland
Malta, NY
Johnny Podres with Bob Bennett Summer '06
Alyssa Bennett Igo
January 15, 2008
To the family of Johnny Podres,
You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time and always. I will not forget the day he threw out the ball in Burlington, VT a few years ago nor all of the fans who cheered him on and celebrated his life. Having talked to him that day, I knew it meant a lot to him to see the impact he had on so many lives for his greatness. He will long be celebrated for his contribution to the game and of course to Brooklyn. It was also a priviledge to get to know him, to appreciate his wit, kindness, and great humility.
Gary Evans
January 15, 2008
To Johnny Podres' family: My sincere sympathies to each of you on the loss of your loved one. I did not know him, but briefly met him once when he was with his sister Mary whom I knew for a few years before she passed.
I remember his winning of the 1955 Series games when I was in elementary school. I remember some local excitement because the Brooklyn Dodgers won, but also because the pitcher was from "Up North" in Mineville. About 1960 I finally was taken fishing in Lincoln Pond by an adult cousin. I can understand why he enjoyed fishing there. In the past two years I have spent much time in Port Henry involved with a hobby and it the entire area is so peaceful and lovely. A wonderful place from which Johnny emerged and where he will rest for eternity.
I know he is well remembered and you, his loved ones, will miss him most of all. But remember him as he was __ a person who loved what he did and who made a positive impact on the world around him.
John Podres, may you rest in peace. God Bless you and your family and friends.
Martha Mann
January 15, 2008
Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Sincerely, Martha Mann
Nikki Murray
January 15, 2008
Joe and Trish--
My deepest sympathy and prayers to you two and your family. You are in my constant thoughts and prayers.
Cathie Albair
January 15, 2008
I met Pods in the early 80's when I was working at the Orlando Sentinel, and I would meet my brother, Scott Gray, in Winter Haven with Frank Benettieri. At the time I knew nothing about baseball, but loved listening to all the jokes and stories. Pods told great stories! When he was with the Twins and knew I was going to a spring season game, he would get me a great seat (although I really liked being in the cheap seats with my baseball glove!). I moved to Philadelphia in 1993, and it was great to be here when they won the league that year. Pods got me seats behind the dugout at a Cubs Phillies game and ruined me forever for cheap seats. The last time I saw him was at the closing ceremonies for Veterans Stadium. I wished I had a chance to talk with him that day. He loved his wife Joan, and was so proud of his sons, and loved talking about harness racing, and he loved Glen Falls.
My sincerest sympathies at your loss.
Rich Johns
January 15, 2008
Johnny was simply "class" I first met him when I asked him to sign autographs at a YMCA event. Although he didn't know me, he was so gracious with his time. He visted my home and signed many items for me and shared some great stories. I felt as though I had always known him. I will treasure that time and those gifts he shared with me.
willie glenn
January 15, 2008
to the family of johnny podres, i will never forget him,
oh how do i remember him and may god bless him,,,,
Randy Elliott
January 15, 2008
Johnny Pod,
We had a lot of fun together in those early Padres years.I learned a lot from you.I especialy learned many things being at the race track many times with you and that was ignore your picks and go with the Duke or Popeyes selections!RIP my friend.I know that you are somewhere teaching that fantastic change up you were famous for!
Thomas Spierto
January 15, 2008
My greatest sympathy to the Podres' family. I got to know John when I taught his younger brothers at Mineville. He was always a gentleman and a fine sportsman.
Kim
January 15, 2008
My deepest sympathies to the family. God Bless You!
Ed Landesman
January 15, 2008
You will surly be missed. You were one of my all time Brooklyn Heros and helped bring Cherished Memories to all of the Brooklyn Dodger Fans. May you rest in Peace.
Donna Hacker
January 15, 2008
May God comfort the Podres Family in the loss of their husband and father. Johnny Podres brought me many years of joy as I cheered for him and his team, the Los Angeles Dodgers. He will be missed by his many fans.
HB TOWNSEND
January 15, 2008
THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS
January 15, 2008
Joe and Tricia:
I am sorry about your loss and my prayers and thoughts are with you both and your entire family. I last saw your Dad driving north on 87 with the NYS vanity plate MVP 55. The year 1955 was the greatness year in Brooklyn Dodger history.
Joe and Lou Ann (Saratoga Springs)
J Jackson
January 15, 2008
My condolences goes to the Podres'
family.
Mike and George"Shotgun" Shuba
January 15, 2008
We are sad to hear about the lost of such a great man. Thanks for all the memories at cooperstown. You will be greatly missed and always remembered. Thanks for being my teammate and friend...in baseball and life. Bless the Podres family.
James (Jim) Brannigan
January 15, 2008
I had the privilege of coaching Johnny from 1949-51, when Whitey Kazlo's wife passed. John was also a great basketball player and led Mineville HS to he regional championships.
I spent many evenings with him at Ebbetts field in Brooklyn.
When in High School he also baby sat for our children and often brought us venison in deer season.
Johnny was a great hero to all of America and his memory will never fade from our hearts.
God bless Joan and Johns family!!!
Clayton & Dorrine Provost
January 15, 2008
Our sympathy to the family. He brought dignity to baseball and never fogot his routes. What a honor for the North Country.
Ed Rytell
January 15, 2008
I am very sorry to hear about Johnny's passing. He will be missed by many and his stories will be passed on by many for years to come. I will always remember fondly growing up in Witherbee with the Podres family.
JOHN CHAPUK
January 15, 2008
DEAR JOHNNY
YOU WILL BE MISSED BY ALL YOUR FRIENDS IN WITHERBEE. MAY YOU REJOICE WITH YOUR FAMILY IN HEAVEN.
AN OLD FRIEND
CHIP CHAPUK
gerald ducatte
January 15, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Celeste, Randy and Zack Beeman
January 15, 2008
To Johnny's family.
Accept our heartfelt sympathy at this time of sorrow.
Johnny is my 13yr old sons idol, he loves baseball and when Johnny came to town to be the Grand Marshal in the parade 3yrs ago my son got to meet and have a ball signed. He was so excited to be honored with the short conversation he had with Johnny. Zack was saddened last night when we returned from his bowling tournement and his Dad told him about Johnny's passing.He simply looked up at Jonny's picture (which is on a shelf in my livingroom along with the ball Jonny signed) and crossed his heart .
I took care of Anna when she was at Horace Nye nursing home. She was a quiet, sweet lady I always enjoyed her.
Please find some comfort in knowing that so many people you do not know personally will share in your loss of a wonderful man.We will say many prayers for you and your family
Jeff & Michelle St. John
January 15, 2008
Joe & Trish,
We are deeply saddened by the passing of your Dad. He was truly one of the great American heroes of our time! Our prayers are with you & your family.
Thomas Hinger
January 15, 2008
Johnny loved baseball, and baseball loved him. I enjoyed our many days fishing when he would come to Winter Haven.
My deepest sympathy.
Tom Hinger
Winter Haven, Florida
Philip Barcomb
January 15, 2008
I'm sorry for the loss of your love one a a legendary figure. I'm 66 yrs and remember going to Minsville and going to school to pickup Johnny and Raymond Barcomb from ball practice. This was the only time I ever met him. I'm so sorry. I will never forget him. Phil
Mike Java
January 15, 2008
Joan, John, Joe,
Our deepest condolences...
A good man...
blessed with a little more pitchin' and lots of good fishin'.....
Paul & Tammy Hurlburt
January 15, 2008
I met Mr Podres in 2005 in cooperstown. He was very kind to me. He grew up with my uncle Roy Brown in Moriah and he remembered him and told me when I saw him to tell him Johnny Podres said hello, so I was very happy to see he never forgot where he came from and never forgot his friends. He was a very good man and a great ball player.
Susanna Deyoe
January 14, 2008
I had the pleasure of knowing Johnny though Sokol's Market. He came in almost everyday to buy his racing papers. He always took time to talk to me about the horses. He was a very nice man. My prayers are with his family.
Frank Coppenbarger
January 14, 2008
I had the pleasure of knowing Johnny and Joanie well, as I spent several season with him here in Philadelphia. He was such a good guy and so much fun to be with. He was one of baseball's real treasures and definitely one of a kind! We will miss him so much. Condolences to the family from Frank, Chris, Caitlyn & John Coppenbarger. Director, Team Travel & Clubhouse Services - Philadelphia Phillies
Marty Badagliacca
January 14, 2008
Johnny you made the borough of Brooklyn proud in 1955 by beating the Yankees in Game 7 of the World Series. We will never forget you. God bless you & your family. Forever Brooklyn.
Bonny Fengel
January 14, 2008
I remember when Johnny from when he was the Phillies pitching coach. He was so wonderful at what he did, and admired by many.
January 14, 2008
My condolences to the Podres Family.
May God Bless and Comfort you in your time of sorrow.
John
Chaz Betz
January 14, 2008
To Johnny and Joey, your father was a Great man and a Legend, and I know he's in a great place now and pitching to Ruth and Gehrig and striking them out. May God be with you.
Donald Nelson
January 14, 2008
My grand uncle was John Cashmore, the great Borough President of Brooklyn. It was through him that I
finally got to see the Dodgers play a game in Ebbetts Field on August 23,1957, their last year in Brooklyn. I frequently followed the
Dodgers on the radio during the 1950s and continued following them in Los Angeles. I remember the day of the Dodger Victory, October 4,1955, with fond memories.
Grace gumlaw
January 14, 2008
we are very sorry to here of your loss he was a great neighbor in witherbee new york and will be miss by our family he was a hero to us as children growing up
the clark family
Richard Brown
January 14, 2008
To The Podres Family,
May Johnny rest in peace. He was one of the good guys.
M Scala
January 14, 2008
Truly one of a kind. My thoughts and prayers to the Podres family. He will be missed by many.
Sheila Smith
January 14, 2008
Rest in Peace Johnny.
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