Veteran baseball announcer Steve Klauke has passed away at the age of 69 after a tragic collision with a pickup truck.
Klauke, a beloved figure in the world of baseball, dedicated 29 years of his life to broadcasting games for the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees. His life was tragically cut short on Monday, June 10, in a devastating road incident, as shared by Sandy City Police Department Lieutenant Dean Carriger.
That fateful evening, just before 8:30 p.m. local time, Klauke was attempting to cross the street on a green light when he was struck by the pickup truck making a right-hand turn. He was immediately rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of the following day, June 11.
The driver of the pickup truck remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. The incident is still under active investigation.
The Salt Lake Bees shared a heartfelt tribute to Klauke on their social media, mourning the loss of their beloved broadcaster. “Steve was an incredible broadcaster, amazing friend, and devoted husband and father. He will forever be ‘the voice of the Bees,’” they wrote.
Klauke’s retirement in September 2023 marked the end of a remarkable 29-year career behind the microphone. His final game send-off was an emotional moment, with Klauke expressing his gratitude for the honor and privilege of connecting with his audience over the years.
In his final game, Klauke poignantly expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s been my honor and privilege to have you on the other end listening for all these years. I wouldn’t exchange anything I’ve done over the last 29 years for anything else.” He concluded with heartfelt farewell words, “Thank you for making this minor leaguer feel like a major leaguer. I’m Steve Klauke, and, for the final time, so long from the ballpark.
In a touching tribute, Bees right fielder Jason Martin hit a two-run home run in the first inning of the team’s game on the night of Klauke’s passing. The Bees dedicated this moment to Klauke on their social media, writing, “This one is for you, Steve 
.”
The NBA world mourned the loss of a true legend, Jerry West, who passed away peacefully at the age of 86. The Los Angeles Clippers released a statement confirming his passing and honoring his extraordinary career and impact on the sport. […]
Klauke’s impact extended beyond the baseball diamond, as he was also an integral part of the Utah sports community. The NBA’s Utah Jazz, for whom Klauke once hosted pregame, halftime, and postgame shows, shared a touching tribute, calling him a “legendary sports broadcaster” and expressing their heartbreak over his sudden passing.
The team’s statement read, “The Utah Jazz family is heartbroken by the sudden passing of Steve Klauke, voice of the Salt Lake Bees for three decades, longtime member of the Jazz broadcast team, and father to Jazz equipment manager, Adam Klauke. A legendary sports broadcaster, Steve was admired and loved by many. He will be greatly missed, and his contributions will forever impact the Utah sports community.”
Former Jazz star Donovan Mitchell, now with the Cleveland Cavaliers, also expressed his condolences on social media, sharing his sorrow and sending prayers to Klauke’s family.
Klauke leaves behind a lasting legacy, not just in the world of baseball but also in the hearts of his loving wife, Sue, and their two children, Adam and Lisa.
