Ernie Banks, better known as Mr. Cub, passed away last Friday. His wife Liz confirmed that he had passed away.

Banks is an icon in the baseball world. He was the first ever African-American player for the Chicago Cubs. He joined the organization on September 17, 1953.

Afterwards, his skill would bring him to 11 All-Star teams, as well as earning the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award twice from 1958-1959.

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Apart from his skill though, it was his enthusiasm and optimism that shone through as it let fans everywhere know what it was really like to be a Cubs fan.

Tom Rickets, chairman of the Cubs, released a statement on the passing of Banks. He said that Banks was one of the greatest players of all time. He even identified him as a pioneer of the sport.

"...he was the warmest and most sincere person I've ever known. Approachable, ever optimistic and kind-hearted, Ernie Banks is and always will be Mr. Cub," Rickets said.

Along with the chairman and the fans, U.S. President Barack Obama and the First Lady also expressed their condolences.

Obama said that Banks came up through the Negro Leagues on just US $7 a day. He was the first African-American to play for the Cubs, as well as the first number that they retired. He also pointed out that throughout Banks' career, he earned 512 home runs as well.

In November 2013, Banks received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It was a symbol recognizing his goodwill.

When asked what gaining the medal meant to him, Banks said it meant everything and that life is wonderful.

"When you do things to try to help people and share things, it really comes back to you," Banks said.

It can be argued that more than his skills in baseball, the people will remember how great a person Banks was and how he affected the world.

TagsErnie Banks, Mr. Cub, Chicago Cubs