Add a Memory
Make a Donation
George Altman
1933 - 2025
George Altman
1933 - 2025
Obituary
Guest Book
George Altman Obituary
Born March 20, 1933 in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Altman overcame early adversity - his mother died when he was four - before emerging as a standout athlete at Dillard High School. He went on to attend what is now Tennessee State University, initially playing basketball. When the school added a baseball team during his college years, he switched to the diamond.
Altman's professional career began in 1955 with the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro American League - a brief but important first step. Within months, scouts affiliated with the Chicago Cubs signed him, and he made his major league debut on April 11, 1959.
Over nine seasons in the Major Leagues with the Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, and New York Mets, Altman compiled 832 hits, a .269 batting average, 101 home runs and 403 RBIs in 991 games. His finest years came in 1961–62, when he earned selection as a National League All-Star. Though plagued by recurring injuries, he remained respected for his combination of size, power, and fielding versatility.
Rather than retire after his U.S. career ended, Altman embarked on a second act in Japan, joining the Lotte Orions (later Tokyo Orions) and eventually the Hanshin Tigers. Between 1968 and 1975, he built a formidable legacy abroad.
Off the field, Altman was equally grounded. During early offseason periods he worked as a substitute elementary school teacher. Later, he transitioned to a second career as a commodities trader on the Chicago Board of Trade. In retirement, he and his wife settled in O'Fallon, Missouri, where he enjoyed horseshoe pitching and even helped his team win a national tournament in 2012.
His journey was immortalized in his 2013 autobiography, "George Altman: My Baseball Journey from the Negro Leagues to the Majors and Beyond."
Altman's path - from segregated small-town North Carolina to the fields of America's pastime and beyond - showcases not only athletic talent but determination, adaptability and quiet dignity. He helped pave the way for generations of Black and international players.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: Bettmann/Getty Images)
15 Entries
J Kessler
December 4, 2025
I will always remember his amazing talent and dedication to the game of baseball. He was a genuine inspiration to black men everywhere. I send my deepest sympathies to his family and friends. RIP George.
Mr. Jr
December 3, 2025
My condolences.
RB
December 1, 2025
An outstanding baseball player whose amazing career spanned decades. He was an inspiration to so many both on and off the field. From being a member of the Negro League, playing with the Cubs, Mets and the Cardinals to substitute teaching in the off seasons, he was always a class act. Sincerest condolences to the Altman family. May God give strength and comfort to you in your time of loss.
Cheryl Jimerson
November 29, 2025
I would like to offer my sincere condolences, and please know that God will comfort you and your family throughout this difficult time (2 Thessalonians 2:16,17).
How you can show support
Scott Szafran
November 28, 2025
B G left me passes at the pass gate at Wrigley Field when I was a kid. The last time I saw him was at Ernie Banks funeral with his daughter and he remembered me. May he rest in peace. My condolences go out to his daughter
Dickie Trah
November 28, 2025
6-29-1961 My first Cub game at Wrigley. George batted cleanup. A thrill that a 10 year-old will remember for a lifetime, Mr. Altman hit a first inning 2-run homer. 2/4; 4 RBI; CUB WIN over the eventual pennant-winning REDLEGS - Quite a day's work! Thanks for the memory. We'll meet at the Resurrection. Blessings and encouragement to all his loved ones who share our hope.
Chris
November 27, 2025
I offer my sincere condolences to the family of George Altman. May the God who gives comfort be with you during this difficult time.
Tony
November 27, 2025
To the family, many, many friends, colleagues and fans of Mr. Mr. George Lee Altman fine comfort with you during this difficult time in your lives. Mr. George Lee Altman was a outfielder whose prodigious career spanned the Negro Leagues, Major League Baseball. May you find comfort in your wealth of fond memories together with Mr. George Lee Altman. May the God of comfort bless your grieving hearts with strength, loving kindness and peace as the world copes with the loss of Mr. George Lee Altman. We will never forget that he was a wonderful basketball and baseball player in these great games, what a tremendous goal and accomplishment.
Paula Abjur
November 27, 2025
My condolences to your family. George´s professional career as a baseball player will be remembered by many people. May you find peace and comfort in the loving hands of our Heavenly Father. His loving care will help you through this difficult time.
Joseph Tunzi
November 27, 2025
As a kid growing up in Chicago and loving the Cubs and Big George I was sad to read he had passed .He was and will continue to be one of my sports heros my condolences to his family on there loss to not only a great athlete but a great person .God bless you George and thanks for the memories .Joseph A.Tunzi.
Jameschico Fields
November 26, 2025
My condolences to the family,loved ones and friends a in d if not for injuries that prematurely shortened his major league career, he would sure made the Hall of Fame
Jameschico Fields
November 26, 2025
I briefly remember his name when he played for the Cubs and think he hit behind "Mr Cub", Ernie Banks
Phyllis Curry
November 26, 2025
My sincere condolences to your daughter and family. May you rest in perfect peace.
Phyllis and Richard Curry
Diane Harrison
November 26, 2025
Sorry for your loss, may the God of all comfort give you the comfort you need in your time of sorrow.
Mak
November 26, 2025
I´m so sorry for your loss. May the God of Comfort be with you during this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 15 of 15 results
Make a Donation
in George Altman's name
How to support George's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
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 more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
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.
Read moreWays to honor George Altman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more