The Chicago Cubs join with fans in mourning the passing of Ernie Banks, the greatest player in team history, at the age of 83 on Friday. Please share your memories of “Mr. Cub” and any condolences in the comments below.

“Words cannot express how important Ernie Banks will always be to the Chicago Cubs, the city of Chicago and Major League Baseball. He was one of the greatest players of all time,” said Tom Ricketts, Chairman of the Cubs. “He was a pioneer in the major leagues. And more importantly, he was the warmest and most sincere person I’ve ever known.

“Approachable, ever optimistic and kind hearted, Ernie Banks is and always will be Mr. Cub. My family and I grieve the loss of such a great and good-hearted man, but we look forward to celebrating Ernie’s life in the days ahead.”

Inducted into Baseball’s Hall of Fame in 1977, Ernie played the game he loved as a lifelong Cub for 19 seasons from when he made his debut with the club in 1953 — the club’s first African-American player — until his retirement in 1971. He was a 14-time All-Star and back-to-back National League Most Valuable Player in 1958 and 1959, finishing with 512 home runs — the most for a National League shortstop.

Please leave your comments below as we remember the man who was a beloved hero to so many.

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