Former big league player, manager and Hall of Fame broadcaster Jerry Coleman has passed away.
The San Diego Padreshave announced the passing of longtime broadcaster Jerry Coleman.
Coleman quickly endeared himself to the fans of San Diego in the broadcast booth after a nine-year major league career with the New York Yankees.
He served two tours of duty as a Marine Corps aviator, postponing his big league career to serve in World War II. He flew 120 missions as a Marine in WWII and the Korean War, and was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses, 13 Air Medals and three Navy Citations.
He only left the broadcast booth one time after he began calling games for the Padres in 1972 -- to manage the team in 1980.
Coleman became famous well known around the country for verbal snafus, sometimes referred to as "Colemanisms."
Affectionately known as "The Colonel," Coleman became synonymous with the Padres franchise, and will be dearly missed San Diego and around the country.
The Jerry Coleman statue will remain open until 11:30 p.m. tonight for fans who would like to pay their respects. pic.twitter.com/lUkEiOsrM2
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