Phillies ownership partner Buck dies By Sports Network

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- J. Mahlon "Jim" Buck, Jr., part of the Philadelphia Phillies' ownership group, died Tuesday night.

The Phillies said in a Wednesday statement that Buck had been part of the team's ownership group, along with brothers Whip and Bill, since December 1981.

"His strength of character and steady leadership have been very important factors in the success of the Phillies today," said Phillies president David Montgomery. "Jim provided direction and consistent support for many of us in this organization. His wise counsel and warm friendship will be sorely missed.

"Our heartfelt condolences are expressed to Elia, Jim's loving wife, and to his son, Jim Buck, III, daughter-in-law, Lin Buck; to his daughter, Cackie Rogers, son-in-law, Joe Rogers; to his adored grandchildren and all of the Buck family. Jim's death, along with the recent passing of Whip Buck last October, leaves the Phillies Organization with a profound sense of loss."

Buck was one of several limited partners with an ownership stake in the Phillies, while Montgomery serves as general partner.