John Killebrew
John Killebrew
John Killebrew’s quiet demeanor and natural talent for baseball earned him the affectionate nickname “Johnny” from generations of Minnesota fans. He is an inspiring example of an “All-American Boy” who went on to achieve great success in his professional career and make a positive impact on society.
Killebrew was an outspoken supporter of New South principles and a prominent figure in the agricultural movement of his day. He helped form Tennessee’s first Bureau of Agriculture and served as its secretary until 1880.
Early Life and Education
Early childhood education is essential for providing children with the necessary skills and social experiences that will prepare them for school. Studies show that the first three years are particularly crucial in terms of brain development as well as social emotional development, so it should come as no surprise that early childhood education should be a top policy priority.
Theories on early education shape what teachers teach today, and many of these ideas emphasize play as a means for children to acquire valuable lessons. This idea has become particularly influential in classroom settings.
Professional Career
Harmon Killebrew was an acclaimed power hitter who played for both the Washington Senators and Minnesota Twins. An eight-time All-Star, his home runs rank second only to Babe Ruth’s in the American League.
Killebrew’s career began slowly, but eventually took off and he emerged as one of Major League history’s great hitters with 573 home runs and 1,584 RBIs.
He was a beloved player who brought baseball to the Midwest. Additionally, he served as an inspiring television broadcaster and instructor in Oakland Athletics’ minor-league system.
Achievements and Honors
The Killebrew family has a proud legacy of supporting athletics. Clay Killebrew had an instrumental role in molding his sons Gene and Robert into exemplary athletes.
Harmon Killebrew, the youngest son, earned numerous accolades. He won championship football eleven for Payette Pirates and excelled as a basketball player as well.
He was an enthusiastic golfer and volunteer at Moore Memorial United Methodist Church, serving on numerous committees such as the Mildred Fondren Sunday School Class.
John was a broadcaster for WTCN-TV and hosted a radio show during the Twins season. Additionally, he served as columnist for The Winona Times and was an active member of the Winona Rotary Club. In his free time he enjoyed golfing and spending time with his family; furthermore, John served on boards including Winona City Library Board and Community Foundation of Southwest Minnesota.
Personal Life
John Killebrew was an illustrious sportsman who played in the major leagues for many years. He was a power hitter who hit several home runs and drove in plenty of runs.
He was a strong and rugged individual, yet also an affable gentleman who took great pride in his family. Married to Elaine Roberts for many years, they had five children together.
After retiring from baseball, he pursued a career as television broadcaster for several teams. Additionally, he served as hitting instructor for the Oakland Athletics.
He was a member of St Paul’s Episcopal Church in Chattanooga, but felt most at home at The Little Brown Church in Summertown on Signal Mountain and Summer Chapel near Highlands, NC. Survived by his wife Jane Jordan Roberts; daughters Jane Jordan (Fluff) Roberts from Birmingham Alabama; Margaret Kruesi (Kippie) Griffin from Greenville North Carolina; Amelia Anderson (Presh) Ashe from Lookout Mountain Tennessee; as well as six grandchildren; all survived by him.
Net Worth
John Killebrew was a legendary baseball player. He was known for his powerful swing that produced incredible power output from his compact frame.
His career spanned 22 years, during which he played for both Minnesota Twins and Senators. A seven-time All-Star, he earned himself the American League Most Valuable Player Award in 1969.
He was an expert on agriculture and often spoke to farmers. Additionally, he served as the first Commissioner of Agriculture for Tennessee.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, he will always be remembered for his kindness and hospitality. He generously donated money to numerous charities such as the Chattanooga Metropolitan Museum of Art. Most importantly, he was a devoted family man who treasured those closest to him.