Sox Clubhouse Manager Joe Mcnamara

March 31, 1995|By Paul Sullivan, Tribune Staff Writer.

SARASOTA, Fla. — Joe McNamara, a fixture in the White Sox visitors clubhouse for 29 years, died Wednesday, apparently of a heart attack.

Mr. McNamara, the visitors clubhouse manager who was fondly known as "Joe Mac" by major-league players, coaches, managers and umpires, was 60.

"He was one of the family," said Sox manager Gene Lamont. "He'll really be missed around here."

Mr. McNamara, an Oak Lawn resident, began his baseball life in 1966, assisting his older brother John in the visitors clubhouse at old Comiskey Park. He became the umpires clubhouse manager in 1983 and took over as the visitors clubhouse manager in 1985.

Mr. McNamara's job was essentially to ensure that all visiting players felt at home in their clubhouse. He made sure their equipment and uniforms were ready, planned their pre- and post-game meals, and provided amenities from pop to bubble gum, some of which he shopped for himself.

"Throughout the whole organization, there was no one more beloved than him," said Sox General Manager Ron Schueler. "We didn't lose just an employee. We lost a friend.

"He really loved the game, and always had a big smile on his face. Joe would do whatever he could to help you."

A moment of silence for Mr. McNamara was observed before Wednesday's White Sox-Pittsburgh exhibition game at Ed Smith Stadium.

Survivors include two daughters, Norine and Mary; and a son, Joe Jr.

Funeral arrangements were pending.