Bill Slattery, a popular Saint Louis University alumnus and longtime host of the Honorary Captain program at SLU men's basketball games, passed away on Saturday, April 25.
 
"On behalf of all of us in SLU athletics, we extend our deepest sympathies to Bill's family and friends," SLU Director of Athletics Chris May said. "His work with the Honorary Captain program at SLU games was quintessential Bill – he cared so deeply for those kids and would do anything to brighten their day. He had a heart of gold."
 
Slattery, a St. Louis native who attended Normandy High School, played for the Billikens from 1951-55. He helped the Billikens post two 20-win seasons and qualify twice for the NIT. Slattery was inducted into the Billiken Hall of Fame in 1998.
 
His impact on SLU basketball continued throughout his lifetime. In the 1990s, he created the Honorary Captain program. In conjunction with SSM Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital and St. John's Mercy Child Development Center, Slattery would host children, most of whom were terminally ill, and their families at a SLU men's basketball game. They would be recognized in a pregame ceremony and receive VIP treatment during the game.
 
Slattery is survived by his wife of 63 years, Suzanne, and daughters Sharon, Linda and Sandra. A funeral mass will be live streamed by St. Anselm Parish on Tuesday, April 28, at 1 p.m. A Celebration of Life party will be scheduled for a later date.