Herb Kohl, the highly respected former U.S. Senator and previous owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, died at the age of 88 on December 27, 2023.
His passing, following a brief illness, was confirmed by Herb Kohl Philanthropies. Kohl was a well-known figure in Wisconsin, his birth state, where he was admired for his humility and dedication to the community.
From Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kohl was the son of immigrants and played a significant role in the political and business sectors of his home state. He completed his undergraduate studies in 1956 at the University of Wisconsin, then pursued an MBA at Harvard University in 1958. Between 1958 and 1964, he served in the Army Reserve. Kohl’s leadership skills were clear as he contributed to the success of Kohl’s grocery and department stores, eventually becoming company president in the 1970s.
Kohl stepped into the world of politics in the 1970s, serving as the chair of the state Democratic Party from 1975 to 1977. His political journey reached a notable point when he purchased the Milwaukee Bucks in 1985 for $18 million, ensuring the team’s stay in Milwaukee and ushering in a new chapter for the franchise.
He was celebrated for his generosity and commitment to his community, especially through his substantial donations to the Fiserv Forum and the Kohl Center at the University of Wisconsin.
During his 24-year tenure in the Senate, Kohl gained recognition for his quiet yet impactful approach, particularly on Wisconsin-centric issues like dairy policy. With a moderate voting record and a philosophy of being “nobody’s senator but yours,” he earned respect across the board. Notably, he was among the Senate’s wealthiest members and uniquely owned a professional sports team while serving.
Kohl’s philanthropic endeavors were substantial, most notably through the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation which has granted over $34 million in scholarships and grants to Wisconsin educators and students.
Tributes to Kohl’s legacy poured in from various quarters, including Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who both acknowledged his exceptional dedication to his state and the NBA.
Despite his significant accomplishments, Kohl, who never married, preferred to maintain a low profile and concentrate on addressing community needs.
