Former Democratic US Senator Herb Kohl Passes Away at 88
Herb Kohl, a former Democratic US senator from Wisconsin and the former owner of the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks, has passed away at the age of 88. The news of his death was announced, but the cause was not given, other than it being after a brief illness.
Kohl was a beloved figure in Wisconsin, known for his deep love for Milwaukee and the state. He played a significant role in keeping the Milwaukee Bucks in town when he became their owner. Throughout his life, Kohl generously supported civic and educational causes in Wisconsin.
While in the Senate, Kohl was a quiet but effective figure, especially when it came to issues that were important to his state, such as dairy policy. Kohl was not only one of the richest members of the Senate but he also held the unique distinction of being the Senate’s only professional sports team owner.
Born in Milwaukee, Kohl maintained a lifelong friendship with Bud Selig, who later became the commissioner of Major League Baseball. Kohl entered politics in the 1970s and eventually served as the chair of the state Democratic Party. In 1985, he bought the Milwaukee Bucks for $18 million, ensuring the team remained in his beloved city.
Although Kohl sold the team in 2014, he made significant contributions, including $100 million towards the construction of the Fiserv Forum, the team’s new arena. His efforts paid off when the Milwaukee Bucks secured their first NBA championship in 50 years.
Kohl’s philanthropy extended beyond sports. He donated $25 million to the University of Wisconsin, the largest private donation in the university’s history, to support the construction of the Kohl Center. In addition, he established the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation, which provides scholarships and fellowships to students, teachers, and schools throughout Wisconsin.
From 1989 to 2013, Kohl served as a US senator, prioritizing the interests of his home state and making significant contributions to farm policy. He was known for his dedication to public service, never accepting a pay raise and returning the rest of his salary to the Treasury Department each year.
Kohl’s successor, Tammy Baldwin, became Wisconsin’s first female senator and the first openly gay member of the Senate.
The loss of Herb Kohl undoubtedly leaves a significant void in Wisconsin and the nation, as his legacy of service and generosity will be remembered for years to come.
