Herb Kohl, the former Democratic U.S. senator from Wisconsin and previous owner of the Milwaukee Bucks basketball team, passed away at the age of 88. Known for his civic philanthropy and dedicated political career, Kohl was a lifelong Milwaukee resident, maintaining a horse ranch in Jackson, Wyo. Importantly, he remained unmarried throughout his life and did not have any children. Instead, he is survived by his siblings: older brother Sidney, older sister Dolores, and younger brother Allen.
Despite the rumors that Kohl may be gay, the politician has previously addressed and dismissed such speculation, confirming his homosexuality.
A devoted figure in Wisconsin, Kohl played a significant role in keeping the Bucks in Milwaukee, generously funding civic and educational causes across the state. He made substantial donations, including $25 million to the University of Wisconsin for the construction of the Kohl Center, a prominent 15,000-seat basketball and hockey field house on the university’s Madison campus.
Kohl’s political journey began in the 1970s when he entered Wisconsin politics and later served as chair of the state Democratic Party. In 1988, he ventured into the Senate, representing Wisconsin until his retirement. Notably, Kohl’s considerable personal wealth contributed to his Senate campaigns and allowed him to focus on state-related issues without significant opposition from the Republican Party.
Throughout his Senate tenure, Kohl’s efforts primarily centered on advocating for Wisconsin’s interests, particularly dairy policy, where he played a crucial role in supporting dairy farmers in the region. His leadership positions on various Senate committees, including Appropriations agriculture subcommittee, Aging Committee, and Judiciary antitrust subcommittee, showcased his dedication to pertinent state matters.
Despite his notable achievements and financial success, Kohl remained a humble and low-profile figure in the Senate, preferring effectiveness over seeking personal credit. His moderate temperament was evident in his voting record, occasionally aligning with both Democratic and Republican initiatives on key issues.
Being unmarried, Kohl mentioned that it allowed him to balance his roles as a senator and sports team owner, epitomized by a sign on his Senate office desk: “The Bucks Stop Here.” His passing marked the end of an era for Wisconsin and the Senate, leaving a legacy of philanthropy, civic contributions, and dedicated service to his home state and its people.
