Phillies to honor late Flyers chairman, founder Ed Snider at home opener

(Photo: Michael Alan Goldberg/Flickr Creative Commons)

By: Matt Rappa, managing editor

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Phillies will honor the life and career of late Comcast Spectacor Chairman and Philadelphia Flyers founder Ed Snider with a moment of silence prior to today's home opener against the San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park, according to SportsRadio 94 WIP.

Snider, who was 83 years old, passed away Monday morning at his Montecito, California, residence after a two-year battle with bladder cancer.

"He fought his last years, months and days with courage and grace and recounted his love for many including his Flyers family and fans," said Snider's children in a press release. "We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support from the community, his friends and all those who were fortunate to have been touched by him in some way, large or small.”

The passing of Snider comes two days ahead of the seven-year anniversary of the passing of the late Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas. Kane, Harry's son, will sing the National Anthem prior to first pitch this afternoon.

Snider was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame and Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame in 1988 and 2005, respectively.