Notable deaths from the St. Louis sports world during 2018

It’s time to take a look back and remember the notable figures from the St. Louis sports world who died in 2018, listed in chronological order:

Mike Shanahan, the former owner of the Blues, on Jan. 15 at the age of 78. An investment group led by Shanahan purchased the Blues from Harry Ornest in 1986. He sold his ownership stake in 1990 but remained as the team’s chairman until 1995.

Jo Jo White, a St. Louis native who became a basketball Hall of Famer with the Boston Celtics, on Jan. 15 at the age of 71. A product of McKinley High School, White starred at the University of Kansas before moving on to the NBA. White helped the Celtics win two NBA titles during his 10 years with the team.

Wally Moon, the National League Rookie of the Year with the Cardinals in 1954, on Feb. 9 at the of 88. Moon played for the Cardinals for five years before he was traded to the Dodgers.

Tito Francona, a former outfielder with the Cardinals, on Feb. 13 at the age of 84. Francona spent 15 years in the major leagues and was on the Cardinals in 1965 and 1966.

Ken Flach, one of the best tennis players to come from the St. Louis area, on March 12 at the age of 54. Flach won six Grand Slam doubles events during his career, including two Wimbledon titles and two U.S. Open championships.

Red Schoendienst, known as “Mr. Cardinal” for the 70-plus years he wore the team’s uniform, on June 6 at the age of 95. Schoendienst played, coached and managed the Cardinals and also worked as a special assistant, remaining a fixture at Busch Stadium past his 90^th birthday. He managed the team to the 1967 World Series title and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1989.

Johnny Lewis, a former player and coach for the Cardinals, on July 29 at the age of 77. Lewis had two stints as a coach with the Cardinals, in the 1970s and 1980s, and also worked as a scout and in the team’s farm system.

Jack Quinn, a former executive with the Blues, on Nov. 21 at the age of 80. Quinn ran the Blues for three different owners from 1983 through 1996.

Larry Matysik, a longtime wrestling promoter, on Nov. 25 at the age of 72. Matysik was best known for being the ring announcer for the popular “Wrestling at the Chase” television broadcasts.