Ernie Harwell
Ernie Harwell
Even when I am old and gray, God, do not abandon me. Then I will proclaim Your power to another generation, Your strength to all who are to come. (Ps. 71:18)
That Rich, Deep Voice
For more than forty years, Ernie Harwell was the voice of the Detroit Tigers baseball team. Across the Midwest, Harwell’s rich, deep voice became a cultural icon as he described the exploits of Al Kaline, Denny McLain, Mark Fidrych, and Kirk Gibson. In 1981, the famed broadcaster was honored by induction into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame.
In September 2009, Harwell was diagnosed with terminal cancer. At ninety-two, he faced the end of his life with a dignity that was truly incredible to behold. He expressed no fear and no regrets during a touching interview with Bob Costas shown on MLB Network. Harwell died on May 4, 2010. All of baseball grieved his passing.
Praise the Lord
When Harwell entered the Hall of Fame, he honored Christ during his acceptance speech. “I praise the Lord here today,” he said. “I know that all my talent and all my ability comes from Him, and without Him, I’m nothing. I thank Him for His great blessing.”
Even after being diagnosed with cancer, Harwell continued to express a deep and abiding faith in Jesus. He never flinched, never wavered. He was a great ambassador of the game and a witness for Jesus right until the end. Ernie Harwell was certainly not a perfect man—none of us are—but he was a fine example of grace and humility. Rest in peace, Ernie.
Bottom Line
Ernie Harwell’s life and career were a great testament to his faith. How will others see Jesus in you today?