
Wisconsin's political and sports communities are today mourning the loss of former State Sen. George Petak, who passed away yesterday, as announced by Wisconsin GOP Chair, Brian Schimming. Petak, who was 75, is widely remembered for his pivotal role in securing the future of Major League Baseball in Milwaukee by casting the deciding vote for public funding to build Miller Park in 1995, a decision that led to the recall and loss of his Senate seat. The CBS 58 confirmed Petak's demised earlier this day of his passing.
Petak's decision, originally promised to Racine County voters that they would not bear the .01% sales tax for the new stadium, sparked controversy and a recall movement that eventually saw him ousted from office in 1996. Despite the political fallout, his choice was a key component in keeping the Brewers in Milwaukee. The stadium sales tax concluded in 2020, which was a significant financial undertaking lasting several decades—an outcome rooted in Petak's decisive yet contentious vote, as reported by FOX6 News.
George Petak is not just remembered for his notorious vote, but also for his personal merits. As expressed by his son, Rev. Brian Petak, on the 53rd anniversary of his father's religious commitment, "Today is the 53rd anniversary of Dad's surrendering his life to Jesus on Christmas Eve 1971. He went home to be with him on Christmas Eve 2024." This testament to his faith was echoed by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, who praised Petak's servant heart and efforts to empathize and maintain integrity throughout his life. "Kathy and I join the people of Wisconsin in mourning the loss of Sen. Petak and offer our sincerest sympathies to his wife, kids, loved ones, and the many whose lives he touched," said Evers in a statement obtained by Journal Sentinel.
Fellow lawmakers and citizens alike today are reflecting on the impact Petak had not just on the sports world but also on those around him.