Wendell "Wk" Kim

Raised in Long Beach California, in 1973 he was signed as a free agent with the San Francisco Giants. He later went on to become a Major League Baseball coach spending most of his career as 3rd base coach with the San Francisco Giants. He coached for multiple organizations including the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, and the Montreal Expos and managed minor league teams including the Phoenix Firebirds and Indianapolis Indians. He was a beloved coach at fantasy baseball camp and co-wrote “Youth Baseball, A Coach’s and Parent’s Guide.”

Wendell Kim was the first Korean American to wear a uniform in Major League Baseball. As a coach he was most known for his sprint to and from the coach’s box and his aggressive coaching style. He will be remembered for his passionate approach to baseball, his devotion to his family and friends, and his contagious energy on and off the field.

Wendell retired in 2005, soon after he was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s disease. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Natasha; his son Donald “DK”; his daughter in law Ali; grandsons, William, Patrick, Derek; mother, Doris Caserman; and son in law Rik. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Shannon; his siblings Kendell and Rita; and his father Philip.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 1 at 4:00pm at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care, 6747 E. Broadway Rd., Mesa, AZ 85206. Arrangements entrusted to Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care. Please visit www.MariposaGardens.com to leave a tribute to WK.