News on Rod Beaton (includes update from Maria Beaton)

When I was starting out in the ballwriting business more than 20 years ago, Rod was one of the first big-name writers I got to know and he treated me like I was a big-timer instead of just some kid from a small paper. We became friends over the years and I always enjoyed seeing him at various points in the season. He is a great guy and this is terrible news. Rod, Maria and the kids are in my prayers.

 

rod is a first-rate man. i don't say that lightly. i was a dumb-ass from a small paper who couldn't do a thing for him, and he always treated me like gold. seriously: gold. the guy is one of the all-time best guys. and i haven't seen or talked to him for a good decade. my prayers are you, friend.

 

I think that's why this has affected so many people because he IS one of the good guys in this screwed up profession.

 

Never knew him except for his byline and hearing him on radio interview now and then. I hope people are saying the same things about me when I'm battling for my life. Hope it provides some comfort for his family.

 

Used to read and enjoy his hockey stuff in particular. Never knew him personally, but sounds like a remarkable man, with a remarkable and courageous wife and family. My prayers to you all...

 

Same goes for me. A great compliment for any writer is for any who read his or her work on a consistent basis feel like they actually know the author.

Rod is that way to me. God bless to you, sir, and Maria, your strength is amazing. You will both be in my prayers.

 

Agreed. He'd take time out from his work to help you out on a story even though 10 times as many people were going to read his.

One thing I remember that's sort of off the beaten path: I was on one of those USA Today loanership programs working the sports desk, and back then they'd have the writers each work one week on the rewrite desk. It was January, a few weeks before spring training started, and I remember Rod pouring himself into that cover briefs package and the one inside like it was an exclusive interview with Joe DiMaggio. That always stuck with me. It would have been really easy for him to mail that week on the desk in, and he didn't.

Thoughts and prayers, Rod and Maria.

 

As sad as the subject matter is, it's heartwarming to know that this man has meant so very much to so many people, either through his words or his actions.

I'm glad this thread has been stickied and I hope many more people will drop in to read and to share their thoughts.

God bless Rod, Maria and their loved ones.

 

Spent some time in press boxes and press rooms with Rod on the hockey beat in the early '80s. He always had a good off-the-record story or two to tell. And I just loved the nicknames he'd call himself each time. My two favorites were "Seldom" and "Never"

 

Best wishes to the Beaton family.

 

Great piece on Rod from Jeff Pearlman: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jeff_pearlman/10/09/beaton/index.html?eref=sircrc

 

Good God, that is absolutely tragic.