Legendary Chicago Cubs second baseman Ryne Sandberg has passed away at the age of 65, leaving behind not just an extraordinary baseball legacy but also a deeply rooted family that stood by him through every chapter of his life. As fans across the world mourn his loss, here’s a closer look inside the family that shaped and supported the Hall of Famer throughout his journey.
Ryne Sandberg’s Early Family Life
Ryne Sandberg married his high school sweetheart, Cindy, in 1979. The couple had two children together — Justin Sandberg and Lindsey Sandberg. Despite their eventual divorce in July 1995, they remained co-parents to their kids while Sandberg continued to rise as one of Major League Baseball’s premier players.
A Blended Family with Margaret Koehnemann
Just one month after his divorce, Sandberg married Margaret Koehnemann in August 1995. Margaret brought three children from a previous relationship — BR, Adriane, and Steven — into the marriage, and together they formed a close-knit blended family. Over the years, their family expanded with grandchildren, creating a warm and supportive environment off the field.
Sandberg often credited Margaret for grounding him through both his post-baseball career and health battles, including his recent fight with metastatic prostate cancer.
A Life Celebrated by Family and Fans
Ryne Sandberg’s passing left a void in the baseball world, but his family’s love and the memories they shared continue to inspire. From his days as a young athlete in Spokane to his iconic “Sandberg Game” in 1984, Ryne’s journey was marked by dedication to his craft and his loved ones. His family’s strength and unity were evident as they surrounded him at his home during his final moments, a poignant reminder of the man who valued family above all else.
