Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Mourns Passing of Ernie Harwell

Hall-of-Fame broadcaster for Tigers baseball served as BCBSM health and fitness advocate since 2004

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May 04, 2010, 09:10 ET

DETROIT, May 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan President & CEO Daniel J. Loepp issued the following statement on behalf of the entire BCBSM enterprise and its more than 7,000 Michigan-based employees, in response to the passing of former Detroit Tigers broadcasting legend and Blue Cross health and fitness advocate Ernie Harwell. Mr. Harwell was 92.

"Today, we lost an honorable man, a gentle human being, a connection to a more innocent time and a voice that will always bring thoughts of spring," Loepp said. "With heavy hearts but fond memories, the Blue Cross family extends our deepest condolences to the Harwell family, especially Ernie's beloved wife, Lulu."

"Ernie Harwell positively influenced tens of thousands of lives by working with Blue Cross to promote physical fitness, walking and health. He loved people, and never quit in his efforts to inspire people to stay fit and active. His wit, humility and genuine love of life made it so natural for him to connect with people. Our walks with Ernie, his inspirational words, his daily commitment to fitness and his warm and gentle nature will remain in our memories and will forever be part of Blue Cross's heritage."

*For, lo, the winter is past,*
*The rain is over and gone;*
*The flowers appear on the earth;*
*The time of the singing of birds is come,*
*And the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.*

*- Ernie Harwell, "Song of the Turtle"*