Thurman Munson, 32, was the beloved catcher and team leader of the New York Yankees who died tragically in a plane crash in Canton, Ohio, on August 2, 1979. Munson was born on June 7, 1947 in Akron, Ohio, and was raised in nearby Canton. In 1967 he played for the Canton Terriers, a Class A team in the New York Yankees' farm system. He was the Yankees starting catcher from 1969 until his death, and he led the Yankees to three American League pennants and their first World Series championship since 1962. Munson was the 1976 American League MVP, a seven-time All-Star, and a three-time Gold Glove Award Winner. He was also the first team leader to receive the Roberto Clemente Award in a posthumous celebration of his philanthropic work. In his 11-year career, Munson was a dedicated leader both on and off the field. Despite his success with the Yanks, he loved his home and family so much that he chose to stay in the northeast, near his family in Canton and Akron. He is preceded in death by his father Thruman Sr., and is survived by his wife Diane, and their three children, Tracy, Kelly, and Michael. He is also survived by his mother, Mrs. Ruth Munson and his older brother Duane. Thurman Munson's legacy will live on through the foundation founded in his name and memory.