The Craig Counsell family, the Milwaukee Brewers organization, and many others across the baseball community are mourning the loss of John Counsell, who passed away at the age of 83. He is survived by his children, Jennifer (Michael) Hughes and Craig (Michelle) Counsell; his six grandchildren, Brady, Jack, Finley, Hayden, Rowan, and Devyn; and his siblings, Mary Stump, Susie Sorenson, Ellen Swaine, and Charlie Counsell.
John grew up in Oconomowoc and was a former employee of the Brewers, working for them from 1978-1988, which includes a job in the front office. Prior to that, he played at the University of Notre Dame, coached there, and signed with the Minnesota Twins in 1964.
Former Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell mourns the loss of his father
Former Brewers manager Craig Counsell mourns the loss of his father 1 Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell sits in the bleachers with his father, John, before a game between Whitefish Bay and Hudson in the Kettle Moraine Thanksgiving Classic on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Kettle Moraine High School in Wales, Wisconsin.
According to John’s obituary, a celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, January 10th, beginning with a visitation at 9:30 a.m. This will be followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m., both held at Holy Family Parish in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin.
The service will honor John’s remarkable life, his contributions to the sport, and the lasting impact he had on those around him, both professionally and personally. It will also be an opportunity to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind for his family and community.
