Greek American Peter Angelos, the longtime owner of the Baltimore Orioles and a successful lawyer known for winning high-profile cases, passed away on Saturday. He was 94 years old. Angelos had been battling illness for several years, and his family released a statement through the Orioles thanking caregivers for their support in his final years.
This news comes as Angelos' son, John, finalizes the sale of the Orioles to a group led by David Rubenstein, co-founder of the Carlyle Group. Peter Angelos had stepped away from public life in recent years due to health concerns. A 2022 lawsuit involving his sons revealed he underwent surgery in 2017 for a failing aortic valve.
Born on the Fourth of July in 1929 to Greek immigrants in Maryland, Angelos climbed from blue-collar roots to become a prominent lawyer. After earning his law degree from the University of Baltimore in 1961, he established his own successful firm.
In 1993, Angelos led an investor group, including celebrities like Tom Clancy and Barry Levinson, to purchase the Baltimore Orioles. The $173 million price tag was a record for a sports franchise at the time. The sale was prompted by the bankruptcy of the previous owner, Eli Jacobs.
"Today, Peter G. Angelos passed away quietly at the age of 94. Mr. Angelos had been ill for several years, and the family thanks the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who brought comfort to him in his final years. It was Mr. Angelos' wish to have a private burial, and the family asks for understanding as they honor that request. Donations may be sent to charity in lieu of flowers."
The son of Greek immigrants Frances and John Angelos, Peter G. Angelos was born on July 4, 1929. After graduating from the University of Baltimore, he paid his own way through the university’s law school, where he was named the valedictorian. Angelos built a successful law firm that specialized in workers’ compensation matters and fought the asbestos industry. He also served as a Baltimore city councilman and, at one time, was a mayoral candidate.