ATLANTA - The Atlanta Hawks released the following statement on the passing of Michael Gearon Sr.:
"The Atlanta Hawks are saddened to learn of the death of Michael Gearon Sr., who passed away on November 22 at the age of 87. A former Hawks owner, general manager (1977-79) and president (1977-86), Gearon Sr. spent almost 30 years in a variety of capacities with the club. A successful entrepreneur who retired from business at age 37, Gearon Sr. built one of the top real estate development companies in the country. Gearon & Company, which pioneered the concept of large-scale suburban office parks, was responsible for many of the business developments in Atlanta today, including the Coastal States Building and the Perimeter Center complex.