90-year-old Comerica Park vendor Amzie Griffin has been selling to Tigers fans since 1960

In the crowded sections of Comerica Park, where the scent of hot dogs blends with the cheers of thousands, Amzie Griffin stands as a living testament to commitment and passion, with a story spanning generations of baseball history.

This 90-year-old professional vendor began his career in 1960, roaming the stands, selling snacks and drinks with a smile and a kind word, becoming a familiar face to generations of Detroit Tigers fans.

“I told myself I’d work for just one year,” Griffin recalls. Laid off from Ford Motor Co. in March of that year, he needed a temporary job. After seeing the job posted in a newspaper, he quickly applied.

He was hired that April by Delaware North to manage concessions at old Tiger Stadium. His debut game featured the Tigers against Cleveland.

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“The excitement and camaraderie drew me in,” Griffin said. “Even though I wasn’t on the field, being part of the action was irresistible.”

For 64 years, Griffin has been a familiar face at the ballpark. He has witnessed Tigers’ World Series victories, a 22-inning game and many unforgettable moments, like Kirk Gibson’s 1984 World Series home run. “I can’t describe my emotions when Gibson hit that home run," Griffin said. "You’d have to be there; it was pure magic."

Though he has witnessed magic on the field, his most memorable memories are of the fans he has met along the way — and his family. “I’ve seen kids grow up and bring their kids to the games,” he said with a smile. “Working here is like being part of one big family.”

His own family has also been part of the Tigers’ experience. His sons Michael and David, his daughter Ursula and granddaughter Maria have all worked alongside him. He says all of them have played a big role in his ballpark career, helping to sell display items.

Griffin treasures the interactions he has had at the ballpark with his family, and his family of fans.

He has faced challenges in his long career, from racism to being overlooked, but Griffin remains dedicated to his job. He hopes his story will shed light on the often-overlooked role of vendors. While loyal fans have shown respect and acknowledgment, Griffin says that work still needs to be done.

“Vendors are crucial to the fan experience, but often feel invisible,” Griffin said. “I hope this story reminds fans of the vendor's significant contribution to the game’s atmosphere.”

Alongside his dedication to his vendor work, Griffin is strongly committed to improving his neighborhood. He once led a community group focused on beautifying and creating community engagement in his neighborhood on the east side of Detroit, showcasing his dedication to his profession and community.

As Griffin reflects on his lengthy career, he expresses gratitude for the community he has been a part of and the countless memories he has made. He hopes future generations of sports fans will continue to appreciate the hard work and dedication of vendors like him.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of this job is the genuine respect from the loyal fans and colleagues I’ve gotten to know,” Griffin said. “It has shaped my life and made me who I am today.”

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 90-year-old Comerica Park vendor Amzie Griffin has been selling to Tigers fans since 1960