Timeline: The life and success of Mike Ilitch

DETROIT – Born to immigrant parents in Detroit, Mike Ilitch spent his life firmly rooted and growing in the Motor City. 

Ilitch, a standout athlete, graduated from Cooley High School and actually turned down a minor league contract from the Detroit Tigers before enlisting in the Marines. After serving four years he returned to play minor league baseball for the Tigers before a knee injury cut his playing career short. He, of course, would return to the organization a few decades later. 

Here's a timeline of a great Detroiter's life: 

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