Larry Dolan, the well-respected owner of the Cleveland Guardians, has passed away at the age of 94. The baseball team announced his death on Monday, noting that Dolan and his family are the longest-serving proprietors in the franchise’s history, having owned the team for 25 years.
In a heartfelt statement, Bob DiBiasio, the senior vice president of public affairs for the Guardians, acknowledged the significant impact Dolan had on both the team and the greater Cleveland community. He confirmed that Dolan passed away on Sunday evening.
DiBiasio praised Dolan’s lifelong dedication to the Cleveland area. He described Dolan as someone who contributed on many fronts, from military service as a First Lieutenant in the United States Marines to philanthropy, law, business, education, and sports. DiBiasio expressed gratitude for Dolan’s service and passion for supporting Northeast Ohio.
Paul Dolan, Larry Dolan’s son and the current owner, chairman, and CEO of the Guardians, also reflected on his father’s legacy. In the statement, he expressed sorrow over the family’s loss while simultaneously cherishing the time they had together. He described his father as a loving husband, father, and grandfather, emphasizing his love for family, community, and local sports, particularly the Guardians.
The Guardians conveyed their condolences on social media, sharing that Larry purchased the team from Richard Jacobs on February 15, 2000. With this announcement, the team recognized the milestone, as the 2025 season marks the 26th year of family ownership.
Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred also extended his sympathy regarding Dolan’s passing. He noted that Dolan’s commitment to the Cleveland community and baseball was remarkable. Manfred highlighted Dolan’s role in making the Guardians a consistent force in baseball and a vital part of the local culture, alongside his service in the Marines and his belief in mentoring young people.
Larry Dolan grew up in the Cleveland Heights neighborhood and attended St. Ignatius High School. He later went on to the University of Notre Dame, where he met his wife, Eva.
The significant investment made by Dolan to purchase the team speaks to his commitment; he bought the Guardians for $323 million, which was nearly ten times the amount that Jacobs had originally paid for the franchise 15 years earlier.
Since the Dolan family took over ownership, the Guardians have experienced notable success, achieving 14 winning seasons and making nine playoff appearances. In 2016, they clinched the American League pennant, which led to the franchise’s sixth World Series appearance. Although they fell short against the Chicago Cubs in that final series, the achievement marked a high point for both the team and its fans.
In 2013, Paul Dolan stepped in as the primary owner, guiding the franchise through significant transitions, including the team’s name change in 2021. As a strong advocate for both the Guardians and the community, the Dolan family’s influence is expected to resonate for years to come.
Larry Dolan leaves behind his wife, Eva, along with six children and 21 grandchildren. His legacy will undoubtedly be felt in Cleveland, as he devoted much of his life to bettering the community and nurturing local sports. The Guardians franchise not only mourns the loss of a key figure but also seeks to honor his memory by continuing to build upon the foundation he helped establish.
