Cubs fans leave special messages for Harry Caray at gravesite

Josh Peter | USA TODAY Sports

DES PLAINES, Ill. — As the Chicago Cubs chase their first World Series title in 107 years, the team’s fans will not let legendary Cubs broadcaster Harry Caray go thirsty.

At the base of his gravesite at All Saints Cemetery near Chicago on Thursday sat an open, full can of Old Style beer.

Yes, Caray declared himself a “Cub fan, Bud man,’’ but it’s hard to imagine him turning down a free beer even if it’s not Budweiser. He drank openly during Cubs broadcasts, when he was known for his animated play-by-play commentary, signature expression “Holy Cow,’’ off-key rendition of Take Me Out to the Ballgame and those oversized glasses.

Now Cubs fans making their pilgrimage here, about 15 miles from Wrigley Field, appear to want something more.

On Caray’s gravestone — with its epitaph reading, “FOREVER DEVOTED TO FANS OF BASEBALL’’ — sat 10 pennies, presumably for good luck. An 11th penny and a miniature baseball are attached to a slip of paper that reads, “Harry … please help us go all the way … it’s our year … 2015.’’

In 1994, four years before he died at the age of 83, Caray was asked how he wanted to be remembered.

“I have a feeling that somewhere along the line,’’ he told broadcaster Bob Costas, “somebody will remember me and say, ‘Gee, the Cubs just won the world championship. Boy, isn’t it a shame Harry’s not here to see it.’ "

Turns out some Cubs fans are hoping he can still help them win it.

PHOTOS: Wrigley Field celebrates