Ernie Banks, Mr. Cub, died at 83. Mr. Banks became the Cubs’ first black player on Sept. 17, 1953, six years after Jackie Robinson broke the modern day color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1977.

Mr. Banks played 19 seasons with the Chicago Cubs. He is considered by many to be the greatest power-hitting shortstop of the 20th century. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award from President Obama in 2013.

Mr. Banks was known as an eternal optimist. He would always state everything was just fine whether there was 2 feet of snow on the ground or he was feeling ill. By all accounts, he had a very positive demeanor and it was infectious. The fans of Chicago loved him and it was reciprocated. President Obama and his wife, Michelle, called Mr. Banks “an incredible ambassador for baseball and for the city of Chicago.”

He was considered a giant among men, and that never changed once he retired from baseball. He continued to make appearances and be the darling of Chicago.

Ernie, you can now rest your baseball shoes and bat because you have served mankind well. Job well done thy faithful servant. Rest in peace and thanks for the memories.

ERNEST PARKER JR.

Richmond