Dick Hauser, original Little Leaguer, has died

South Williamsport, Pa. — Dick Hauser spent his last day doing something he loved, according to his family. On Friday he threw the first pitch at a Little League World Series game.

On Aug. 17, Little League International posted a tribute to the 98-year-old. From Little League International:

"Little League International is saddened to hear about the passing of Dick Hauser, one of the first-ever Little Leaguers from the inaugural 1939 season’s Lycoming Dairy team.

"Mr. Hauser, who just recently turned 98, had the opportunity to live out one of his dreams on Friday afternoon, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at the 2024 Little League Baseball® World Series surrounded by his family and friends.

“'His last day was spent surrounded by his family doing his favorite thing,' said the Hauser Family. 'He will be forever missed.'

"Mr. Hauser got his start as a Little Leaguer more than 80 years ago, thanks to a simple question – 'Do You Play Ball?' – by the organization’s founder, Carl E. Stotz. After his playing time was over, Mr. Hauser later had the pleasure of then watching Mr. Stotz coach his own children as they went through the Little League program.

"Following his Little League career, Mr. Hauser went on to play semi-professional baseball, all while coaching his children through the Little League program and made sure to find a way to gather the family together each summer in Williamsport during the Little League Baseball World Series."

NorthcentralPa.com extends our condolences to the Hauser family and friends, and the many instant Dick Hauser fans who fell in love with his passion and spirit on Friday.