Former US Senator and Milwaukee Bucks Owner Herb Kohl Passes Away at Age 88
Herb Kohl, a prominent figure in both politics and sports, passed away on May 14, 2021, at the age of 88. Kohl served as a United States Senator from Wisconsin for four terms, from 1989 to 2013, and was the owner of the Milwaukee Bucks basketball team for nearly three decades. His contributions to both realms have left a lasting impact on the state of Wisconsin and the nation as a whole.
Born on February 7, 1935, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Herb Kohl grew up in a modest family. His father owned a chain of grocery stores, which Kohl later inherited and expanded into a successful business. After completing his education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Harvard Business School, he joined his family’s business and became its president.
Kohl’s entry into politics came in 1988 when he ran for the United States Senate as a Democrat. He won the election and began his first term in 1989. Throughout his political career, Kohl focused on issues such as education, healthcare, and economic development. He was known for his bipartisan approach, working across party lines to find common ground and achieve meaningful results.
One of Kohl’s most notable achievements was his commitment to education. As a senator, he advocated for increased funding for schools and worked to improve access to quality education for all children. He also established the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants to students and teachers in Wisconsin.
In addition to his political career, Herb Kohl had a deep passion for sports. In 1985, he purchased the Milwaukee Bucks, a struggling NBA franchise. Under his ownership, the team experienced a renaissance, making several playoff appearances and becoming a competitive force in the league. Kohl’s dedication to the Bucks and his commitment to keeping the team in Milwaukee earned him the respect and admiration of fans throughout the state.
Kohl’s impact on the Milwaukee Bucks extended beyond the court. In 2014, he sold the team to a group of investors led by Wesley Edens and Marc Lasry, ensuring its future in Milwaukee. As part of the sale agreement, Kohl pledged $100 million towards the construction of a new arena for the team, now known as the Fiserv Forum. This state-of-the-art facility has revitalized downtown Milwaukee and has become a hub for sports and entertainment in the city.
Throughout his life, Herb Kohl was known for his humility and dedication to public service. He was a philanthropist, donating millions of dollars to various causes, including healthcare, education, and the arts. His commitment to improving the lives of others was evident in both his political and personal endeavors.
Upon hearing the news of his passing, tributes poured in from across the political spectrum and the sports world. Many praised Kohl’s integrity, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his community. His legacy will be remembered as one of public service, leadership, and a love for both politics and sports.
Herb Kohl’s passing marks the end of an era for Wisconsin and the Milwaukee Bucks. His contributions to politics and sports have left an indelible mark on both realms. As the state mourns the loss of a beloved figure, it is important to remember and celebrate his achievements, which continue to shape Wisconsin’s future.
