Pittsburgh Pirates News: Iconic Usher Passes Away

From everyone here at Rum Bunter our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the family of long-time Pittsburgh Pirates usher Phil Coyne

Pittsburgh Pirates fans are mourning a major loss. On the Friday, long-time Pirate usher Phil Coyne passed away at the age of 102. For many people in Pittsburgh, Coyne represented what they city they love is all about.

This man wasn’t just an amazing Pirates fan and worker; this man was a true hero. As a WWII veteran Coyne defended the very democracy and freedom will have today. I think every one of us that attended a Pirates game the past 81 years of his service has a Phil Coyne story to tell. My story is probably like many others, but nonetheless, it embodies all what Coyne was about.

I can remember with hat in hand shuffling to find my seat, a kind man with a soft voice asked if he could help me. I showed him my ticket and with no hesitation he directed me to the seat, wiped it off, and said “enjoy the game and don’t have too much fun!” The pure happiness he showed just doing his job, I think, is something that we can all learn from, no matter what you do, do it with a smile!

Coyne started working with the Pirates way back in the Forbes Field days when he was just 18. To me, that’s insane to think about. From 1937 to 2018 Coyne had the same job and to keep that smile for 81 years of service is nothing short of remarkable to me. The Pittsburgh community doesn’t just admire his dedication. His badge and outfit will be forever in the National Baseball Hall-of-Fame for all to see and admire his dedication and loyalty.

Before the Pittsburgh Pirates take the field against the Chicago Cubs on Saturday evening why don’t you say a little prayer for Coyne and his family. I can just see Mr. Coyne now waving his hands up and down way up in the sky rooting for his beloved Pirates. We love you, Phil, and I hope you don’t have too much fun up there!