SAN FRANCISCO (Diya TV) — Bill Neukom, the former managing general partner and CEO of the San Francisco Giants, died at age 83, the team and his former law firm confirmed. Neukom, a lifelong baseball fan and a major figure in the Giants’ front office, played a vital role in helping the team win its first World Series title in San Francisco in 2010.

The Puget Sound Business Journal first reported his death on Wednesday. K&L Gates, the Seattle-based law firm where Neukom was a longtime partner, later confirmed it in an update to his biography.

Neukom, a San Mateo native, grew up a devoted Giants fan. His love for the game began in his childhood when he played baseball with neighbors, including Tina Graham, the daughter of San Francisco Seals executive Charlie Graham Sr. In a 2011 farewell letter, Neukom fondly recalled riding the Greyhound from Burlingame to the ballpark, watching games from the Graham family’s box.

Before joining the Giants’ ownership group, Neukom made his name in the legal world. He began his law career in the 1960s and later joined the firm that would become K&L Gates. In 1985, he became Microsoft’s first general counsel. He worked closely with company co-founder Bill Gates and served in the role for 25 years. Neukom also served as president of the American Bar Association from 2007 to 2008.

In 1995, Neukom became an investor in the Giants. He later took over as the team’s managing general partner and CEO in May 2008, following the retirement of longtime executive Peter Magowan. Neukom brought a fresh approach to the team’s leadership and introduced the phrase “The Giants’ Way” to describe the organization’s culture and values.

Under Neukom’s leadership, the Giants captured their first World Series title in San Francisco in 2010. The win marked a turning point for the franchise and cemented Neukom’s legacy as a key figure in team history.

Known for his colorful bowties and enthusiasm for the game, Neukom often brought a glove to the ballpark, hoping to catch a foul ball. His passion for baseball and the Giants was evident in every part of his role.

In September 2011, less than a year after the championship, Neukom stepped down as managing general partner. Reports at the time cited internal disagreements over how he handled financial decisions following the World Series win. On Jan. 1, 2012, Larry Baer officially succeeded Neukom as the Giants’ CEO.

Baer released a statement on behalf of the team, saying, “On behalf of Greg Johnson, our ownership group and the Giants family, we extend our deepest condolences to Bill’s wife, Sally, and the Neukom family. Bill will always hold a special place in our hearts and the history of this franchise.”

Baer added, “He was instrumental in helping this organization and its players bring the first World Series Championship to San Francisco in 2010. Bill will always be remembered for not only his leadership of this storied organization but also his colorful bowties and the fact that he’d bring a glove to the ballpark. He was a true gentleman, a dedicated fan, and a friend to so many.”

Neukom’s impact extended beyond the field. As a leader and legal expert, he shaped two major institutions — Microsoft and the Giants — with his vision and dedication. His contributions to baseball and the legal world will not be forgotten.

Neukom is survived by his wife, Sally, and their family.