[RoyalsBlue]

(AP - Joplin, MO) The entire community of Joplin is in mourning as the owner of the Jackhammers, Dave Stevens, has passed away unexpectedly due to a massive coronary.

"Dave will be greatly missed," said Joe Harding, the general manager for Joplin. "He was one of the founding members of this league and his drive and passion will be nearly impossible to replace. If it wasn't for Dave, I wouldn't be here right now. He took a chance on me and I'll always be grateful."

The rest of the league was similarly in shock as the word of the Jackhammers owner's passing was told to his fellow owners and the commissioner.

"You always thought he'd be around," said SMSBA commissioner Hiram Gosney. "His vision and forward thinking was one of the reasons why Show-Me emerged from the ashes of the MBO. Dave Stevens was a great owner, terrific man, but most importantly, he was a dear friend. My condolences go out to his wife, Gertie and his son, Manny. It's just a very sad day for everyone in the SMSBA."

Funeral arrangements will be a private affair, per the wishes of the family, but a public memorial service will be held soon at the Jackhammers home ballpark, The Pothole.

Ownership of the Jackhammers is expected to stay within the Stevens family with the likelihood of his son Manny becoming the ownership side face of the team.