Bud Harrelson Cause of Death and Obituary, Who was Bud Harrelson? What Happened to Former Ranger Bud Harrelson? How Did Bud Harrelson Die?
by Preethi | Updated Jan 12, 2024
Bud Harrelson Cause of Death and Obituary
Bud Harrelson, the former professional baseball player and manager, passed away on January 10, 2024, at the age of 79. The cause of his death was complications related to Alzheimer's disease. Harrelson had been battling Alzheimer's since his diagnosis in 2016, and he courageously shared his struggle with the public two years later, aiming to raise awareness about the disease.
He succumbed to the long-term effects of Alzheimer's at a hospice house in East Northport, New York. Harrelson's contribution to baseball, both as a player and later as a coach and manager, left an indelible mark on the sport, and his passing marked the end of a chapter in the history of the New York Mets and the teams he served.
Reflect on the legacies and influence of remarkable individuals through our thought-provoking obituary articles on Fresherslive. Gain a deeper understanding of their impactful experiences and the positive change they brought about, inspiring us to follow in their footsteps.
Who was Bud Harrelson?
Derrel McKinley "Bud" Harrelson was an American professional baseball player, coach, and manager. Born on June 6, 1944, in Niles, California, he played a significant role in the success of the New York Mets during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Harrelson was primarily a shortstop, known for his defensive prowess and gritty style of play.
He spent the majority of his playing career with the Mets, contributing to their 1969 Miracle Mets World Series victory and their return to the World Series in 1973. After retiring as a player, Harrelson continued his involvement in baseball, managing the Mets in the early 1990s and later becoming a part-owner and coach of the Long Island Ducks, an independent minor league team.
Name
Bud Harrelson
Born
June 6, 1944
Birthplace
Niles, California, U.S.
Died
January 10, 2024
Aged
79
Place of Death
East Northport,
New York, U.S.
Batted
Switch
Threw
Right
Bud Harrelson Early life
Bud Harrelson was born on June 6, 1944, on D-Day, in Niles, California. He grew up in Hayward, where he attended Sunset High School and graduated in 1962. Harrelson then enrolled at San Francisco State University before deciding to pursue a career in professional baseball.
In 1963, he signed with the New York Mets as an amateur free agent, choosing the Mets over the New York Yankees. Harrelson's decision proved pivotal, setting the stage for a remarkable journey in baseball that would see him become a beloved figure in Mets history.
Bud Harrelson Career
Harrelson's baseball career spanned from 1965 to 1980, with the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and Texas Rangers. A switch-hitting shortstop, he gained fame for his defensive skills and played a crucial role in the Mets' historic 1969 World Series victory.
His tenure with the Mets also included the 1973 National League Championship Series, where a memorable on-field altercation with Pete Rose became a significant moment in baseball history. After retiring as a player, Harrelson transitioned to coaching, managing the Mets in the early '90s. He later became part-owner of the Long Island Ducks, contributing to the growth of the independent minor league team.
Bud Harrelson Family
Bud Harrelson's family included his first wife, Yvonne, whom he married on December 17, 1965. After their divorce, he married Kim Battaglia in 1975. Harrelson was a father to six children: Kimberly, Jessica, Timothy, Alexandra, Kassandra, and Troy Joseph. Despite the demands of his baseball career, Harrelson balanced family life and his passion for the sport. His contributions to baseball extended beyond the field, with his family being an integral part of his journey.
What Happened to Former Ranger Bud Harrelson?
Bud Harrelson, who played his final season with the Texas Rangers in 1980, passed away on January 10, 2024, after a prolonged battle with Alzheimer's disease. The relentless nature of this neurodegenerative condition led to complications that ultimately claimed his life.
Despite facing the challenges posed by Alzheimer's, Harrelson remained actively involved in baseball, managing and coaching the Long Island Ducks even as he courageously fought against the effects of the disease. His impact on the sport continued through his association with the Ducks, and his death marked the end of an era for those who admired his contributions to the game.
How Did Bud Harrelson Die?
Bud Harrelson's death on January 10, 2024, was attributed to complications related to Alzheimer's disease. Diagnosed with the condition in 2016, he openly shared his struggle with Alzheimer's, hoping to raise awareness and help others facing similar challenges.
Alzheimer's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting memory and cognitive function, and Harrelson's long battle with the disease took a toll on his health. He passed away at a hospice house in East Northport, New York, surrounded by loved ones. Harrelson's legacy in baseball, marked by his tenacity on the field and his enduring impact off it, left an indelible mark on the sport he loved.
Bud Harrelson Cause of Death and Obituary - FAQs
Bud Harrelson passed away on January 10, 2024, due to complications related to Alzheimer's disease.
Bud Harrelson was an American professional baseball player, coach, and manager, notably associated with the New York Mets.
Bud Harrelson was born on June 6, 1944, in Niles, California, on D-Day.
Harrelson played for the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and Texas Rangers during his baseball career from 1965 to 1980.
Bud Harrelson was a father to six children: Kimberly, Jessica, Timothy, Alexandra, Kassandra, and Troy Joseph.