Party for Bill Gleason in Oak Forest

By Chuck Ingwersen
Southland Savvy

Bill Gleason's going-away party won't be a solemn event. You can count on attendees sharing exuberant stories about the legendary sports columnist, raising a glass in his name and enjoying the jazz music that stirred Gleason's soul.

Gleason, who died at age 87 on Dec. 31, 2009, wouldn't have it any other way. The celebration of a life fully lived is scheduled for April 10 at Gaelic Park in Oak Forest, from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Dixieland jazz will be provided by the Mississippi Mudcats, and the event will serve as a fundraiser for the Red Cloud Indian School in Pine Ridge, S.D.

Gleason grew up on the south side of Chicago, was a decorated Army veteran of World War II, and worked for 60-plus years in sports journalism. It was my honor to work with Gleason during his years as a columnist for the Daily Southtown. I was in awe of him when he joined the Southtown, having read and admired him for years when he was the premier sports columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. But I found him to be generous and gracious — and always supremely entertaining.

It should be a great party.

Here's a favorite video clip of mine, posted shortly after his death. It features Bill discussing former White Sox owner Bill Veeck, as well as his love for jazz.