Baseball icon Ryne Sandberg, known for his legendary career with the Chicago Cubs, passed away on July 28 at the age of 65. Throughout his battle with cancer, Sandberg expressed deep gratitude for his wife, Margaret, calling her his “rock” during his treatment.
A Tribute to Margaret
In a heartfelt Instagram post shared in May 2024, Sandberg praised Margaret for her unwavering support as he underwent cancer treatment. “Happy Mother’s Day to my wife Margaret and life partner! We will be celebrating 30 years together next year, the experiences, events, and memories are endless,” Sandberg wrote, sharing a picture of his wife smiling.
He continued, “I wouldn’t have wanted to be with anyone else, and she has made my life fun and has made me a better person and continues to do so.”
Reflecting on his cancer journey since he shared his diagnosis in January 2024, Sandberg thanked Margaret for her immense support. “It has been a lot for her to take on, but she has been the one I credit a lot for my successful winning of the battle! I love her more than ever!”
He called her his “rock,” saying, “With her by my side, I can conquer anything! 🌷”
A Hero to Cubs Fans and Family
Sandberg’s passing was confirmed by Cubs executive chairman Tom Ricketts, who called him “a hero to a generation of Chicago Cubs fans.” Ricketts also remembered Sandberg for being “proud of Margaret, his children, and his role as husband, father, and grandfather.”
In his final health update shared on July 16, Sandberg reflected on the “challenging few months” of treatment but remained hopeful. “While I am continuing to fight, I’m looking forward to making the most of every day with my loving family and friends.”
A Baseball Legacy
Ryne Sandberg was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005 and had his number retired by the Chicago Cubs, becoming the team’s fourth player to receive such an honor. In 2024, the Cubs also unveiled a statue in his honor at Wrigley Field.
Sandberg was married to Margaret in August 1995 after his divorce from his first wife, Cindy. Together, they raised a blended family, with Sandberg becoming stepfather to Margaret’s children, BR, Adriane, and Steven, alongside their own children Justin and Lindsey.
Ryne Sandberg’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career and life. Through his struggles with cancer, he credited his wife Margaret as his source of strength, and his fans will remember him not only for his skills on the field but also for the love he shared with his family.
His legacy in baseball, particularly with the Cubs, will continue to inspire future generations.
