The Milwaukee Brewers began their 2025 season with a touching tribute to Bob Uke, the legendary broadcaster who was a fixture of the team and the city for over half a century. The home opener served as a vibrant, city-wide celebration honoring Uke’s lasting impact and the profound connection he shared with fans.

Bob Uke’s Home Opening Game Pays Tribute – Quick View

• Bob Uke was honored before the Brewers’ game against the Kansas City Royals.
• Uke passed away this year at the age of 90, after a remarkable 54-year broadcasting career.
• Fans expressed their love through wearing themed attire and sharing cherished memories of Uke’s distinctive style.
• The team donned Uke-themed badges, and his signature phrase, “Get up quick! Let’s go!” was emblazoned across the field.
• Owner Mark Attanasio sported a plaid blazer – a clear nod to Uke’s iconic fashion sense.
• Proceeds from Uke-themed merchandise will benefit his favorite charity, the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
• A custom tarp, featuring the words “I must sit in the front row,” was strategically placed in the stadium.
• The statue of Uke was adorned with fan-created signs, beer cans, and heartfelt notes. “He will be with us forever,” remarked Christian Jerich.
• Local businesses offered Uke-themed specials to support the charity.

Deep Dive

As the Milwaukee Brewers took the field on Monday, September 31, 2025, the scoreboard wasn’t simply displaying stats – it was a testament to memory, emotion, and gratitude. The contest against the Kansas City Royals transcended a typical baseball game; it was a celebration of Bob Uke, the voice of summer, the heart of the Brewers, and a broadcasting legend whose presence resonated far beyond the broadcast booth.

This tribute came in honor of Uke’s death in January, at the age of 90. For 54 seasons, he was more than just a play-by-play announcer; he infused every game with his unique wit, wisdom, and, undeniably, his distinctive personality. The Brewers meticulously crafted an immersive tribute encompassing more than just a simple ceremony.

“He’ll be here all the time,” said fan Heather Floyd Gabriciac, sporting a Brewers jersey featuring Uke’s name. “Even if he isn’t physically present, you’ll still feel his spirit here.”

And fans, undeniably, did feel his presence. A spontaneous eruption of cheers – “We love you, Uke!” – resonated through the stadium, a spontaneous and heartfelt expression of appreciation.

Plaid Patterns and Personalized Tributes

Scanning American Family Field, Uke’s signature style was immediately apparent. From the plaid blazers worn by players and executives to the banner proclaiming “I must sit in the front row,” hanging prominently in the upper seating area – nothing was overlooked. Owner Mark Attanasio even embraced Uke’s personal style, wearing a plaid blazer himself.

“I tried my best to find a jacket he would have worn,” Attanasio smiled, looking skyward.

Outfielder Christian Jerich continued the tradition, wearing a plaid shirt on opening day and during the Monday game, stating: “He’ll be with us this season and for many seasons to come.”

Groundskeepers meticulously incorporated Uke’s signature into the field, carving his iconic phrases onto the outfield grass, and players adorned with Uke-themed patches. This served as a visual symbol of unity, pride, and enduring remembrance.

Stadium Becomes a Sacred Space

The statue of Bob Uke, located at 422, quickly transformed into a pilgrimage site for fans. Hundreds gathered to take selfies, leave messages, and enjoy a shared beer – a tangible manifestation of the emotional connection between Uke and the city. A Miller Lite version of his classic commercials was a prominent fixture.

Outside the stadium, a statue was unveiled, covered with signs bearing Uke’s famous home run call: “Get up quick! Let’s go! Go away!” Even beer cans were left as tributes, some appearing to have spontaneously burst – a playful nod to Uke’s spirited commentary.

“They said the jars were starting to burst, and we thought it was Uke himself who was thirsty,” remarked Paul Steinbrook.

Citywide Celebration Extends Beyond the Stadium

The tribute didn’t confine itself to the baseball diamond. Across Milwaukee, Uke’s influence branched out in unexpected ways.

At Kopp’s, a beloved burger and custard shop, a special “Mr. Baseball” frozen cream flavor – a sweet combination of beer nuts, chocolate peanuts, and a hint of Miller’s pale ale – welcomed lines of eager fans. A portion of the proceeds from this creation will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a cause deeply cherished by Uke.

Furthermore, representatives from Milwaukee reached out to the United States, devising strategic and advance plans to give more support to local clients.

A Legacy of Love and Respect

Bob Uke was more than a broadcaster; he was a part of the club. He shared jokes delivered with a twinkle in his eye, offered insightful advice, and possessed the remarkable ability to elevate the atmosphere of any game. When the Brewers clinched the National League Central Championship last year, Manager Pat Murphy paused the celebration to honor Uke with a moment of appreciation. Shortly after the team suffered a heartbreaking loss in the wild card game, Uke quietly entered the visiting team’s locker room, offering words of comfort to the disheartened players, including All-Star Devin Williams, who had faltered in a critical moment.

“He can calm you down,” Murphy explained. “He gives people a beautiful feeling. No conceit. Just a whole heart.”

Uke’s connection with players transcended broadcasting; he served as an advisor, confidant, and a respected figure throughout the organization. Even with his voice now silent in the broadcast booth, his legacy undeniably resonates, and his spirit continues to inspire. Explore more sports news.

FAQ

• When did Bob Uke pass away? He passed away in January of this year.
• What was Bob Uke’s broadcasting career? He had an impressive 54-year career with the Brewers.
• What did fans do at the game? They wore themed attire, shared memories, and shouted tributes.

Call to Action

Share your favorite Bob Uke memory in the comments below!