Reds mourn loss of part-owner Nippert

Louis and Louise Nippert bought the Reds in December 1966, along with 12 other Cincinnati investors, starting a 46-year ownership interest -- the longest in franchise history.

"The Nippert family has been a proud steward of this great franchise for decades, and its influence is woven into the fabric of our long and storied history," Reds president and CEO Bob Castellini said in a statement. "No person loved the Cincinnati Reds more than Mrs. Nippert, and her players loved her for her devotion to the family atmosphere she fostered within the organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this difficult time."

The Nipperts assumed majority ownership in 1973 and held it until 1981, a span in which the Reds won four division titles, two National League championships and two World Series titles. They sold their majority ownership interest in 1981, but retained a minority interest that Nippert held until she died Monday.

In 2010, Nippert and her late husband, who died in 1992, received the Reds' Crosley Award, given to those who displayed dedication and devotion through their careers, service and achievement with the Reds organization.