Former Hawks owner, executive Michael Gearon Sr. dies at 87

Published December 11, 2021 2:41 PM

By CHARLES ODUM
AP Sports Writer

ATLANTA (AP) — Former Atlanta Hawks owner Michael Gearon Sr. has died at the age of 87. The Hawks announced Gearon’s death on Saturday. Gearon served almost 30 years in various roles with the Hawks, including as general manager from 1977-79 and team president from 1977-86. His love for the team was so great that he insisted he be paid only $1 annually when he served as an executive. Gearon, who built a successful real estate career, also was a former director of Turner Broadcasting. Michael Gearon Jr. said his father died Nov. 22 from a brain herniation in his Atlanta home. He said the family didn’t publicize the death for about a week so it could have a private burial.

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