On a stage where he stood many times before to honor others, the life of Pete Van Wieren was celebrated Saturday at Turner Field.
The long-time Braves broadcaster passed away last Saturday after a long battle with cancer at the age of 69. The Braves held a pre-game tribute before Saturday’s game hours after his funeral service.
There was the familiar stage in the middle of the diamond where Van Wieren stood many times to emcee events as Braves players were inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame or had their numbers retired.
The family of Van Wieren, including his wife of 50 years Elaine, was on the stage. His son Steve spoke and thanked the Braves organization and the fans for his career and their support. He said he would like to see his father make one more stop – to Cooperstown and the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
A video tribute was shown on the scoreboard. Team president John Schuerholz, former player Chipper Jones and broadcaster Joe Simpson spoke. Former player John Smoltz recorded a video tribute.
“Last week we lost a very dear friend to this organization,” Jones said. “He was a guy most of us grew up listening to and watching on TV. I can’t tell you what an honor it was to be standing here a little over a year ago today. Any time one of these numbers were retired, Pete Van Wieren was the guy who presented it. He came out here and he did it with such class and eloquence. It was unbelievable. I just want to say as a representative of the players and coaches to the Van Wieren family, we are so sorry for your loss. But I can’t help but think Pete, Skip (Caray) and Ernie Johnson Sr. are up there right now sharing a couple of laughs, sharing a couple of drinks, getting ready to watch the Braves do some business tonight.”
The event concluded with a moment of silence and a bagpipe playing of ‘Amazing Grace.’
