
Former Philadelphia Phillies announcer Chris Wheeler died on Saturday after a golf cart accident. He was 72.
Wheeler was a beloved figure in Phillies Nation for his decades of service to the team. He started as the team's public relations director in 1971 and eventually became a color commentator on the radio broadcasts. He was known for his wit and his love of the game.
"Chris was a true Philadelphia icon," said Phillies chairman David Montgomery. "He was a great friend to the Phillies and to our fans. He will be deeply missed."
Wheeler's accident happened at a golf course in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. He was taken to a hospital, where he died from his injuries.
Wheeler is survived by his wife, Linda, and two children.
A Life in Baseball
Chris Wheeler was born in Philadelphia in 1949. He attended Marple Newtown High School, where he was a star athlete. He played baseball, basketball, and football.
After high school, Wheeler attended Penn State University, where he majored in journalism. He graduated in 1967.
After college, Wheeler began his broadcasting career at WCAU radio in Philadelphia. He worked as an airborne traffic reporter, news writer, and reporter.
In 1971, Wheeler joined the Philadelphia Phillies as the team's assistant director of publicity and public relations. He held that position for two years.
In 1973, Wheeler became the Phillies' color commentator on the radio broadcasts. He worked in that role for 37 years.
Wheeler was a beloved figure among Phillies fans. He was known for his wit and his love of the game. He was also a great storyteller.
In 2014, Wheeler retired from broadcasting. He remained a close friend of the Phillies and their fans.
A Legacy of Excellence
Chris Wheeler was a true baseball broadcasting legend. He was a pioneer in the field, and he helped to shape the way that baseball is broadcast today.
Wheeler was a master of his craft. He had a gift for storytelling and a deep knowledge of the game. He was also a natural entertainer.
Wheeler's passing is a great loss to the baseball world. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and fans.
In Memoriam
Chris Wheeler was a true Philadelphia icon. He was a great friend to the Phillies and to their fans. He will be deeply missed.
A memorial service for Wheeler will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Chris Wheeler Memorial Fund, which will benefit the Phillies Dream Foundation.
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