The Giants announced on Thursday afternoon that former managing general partner Bill Neukom has died at 83.
“On behalf of Greg Johnson, our ownership group and the Giants family, we extend our deepest condolences to Bill’s wife, Sally, and the Neukom family. Bill will always hold a special place in our hearts and in the history of this franchise,” said Giants CEO Larry Baer in a statement. “He was instrumental in helping this organization and its players bring the first World Series Championship to San Francisco in 2010.
“Bill will always be remembered for not only his leadership of this storied organization but also his colorful bowties and the fact he’d bring a glove to the ballpark to try and catch foul balls. He was a true gentleman, a dedicated fan and a friend to so many.”
Neukom, born and raised in San Mateo, became an investor with the Giants in 1995. In May 2008, he succeeded Peter Magowan as the Giants’ managing general partner. Neukom self-published “The Giants’ Way” that same year, which outlined the philosophy and standards that he wanted the organization to follow.
Neukom, known for wearing his signature bow ties, was the first Giants’ principal owner to guide the franchise to a championship since Horace Stoneham in 1954, when the franchise was in New York.
He remained in the role until he retired after the 2011 season, when this news organization reported that he was asked to step down by the team’s 10-member Partners Executive Committee after a series of disagreements. He was succeeded by Baer.