First, George Steinbrenner had to make a comeback --

We note the passing of Yankee boss George Steinbrenner, sports legend and pop icon as Costanza's boss in Seinfeld.

But before he became a legend, even Mr. Steinbrenner had to make a comeback. The Cleveland, Ohio native's (said he was the son of "one tough German") first involvement in pro sports was as an owner of the Cleveland Pipers, a short-lived basketball team that went bankrupt.

After that setback, his initiative to buy the Cleveland Indians? Rebuffed. So, now, 2 setbacks and counting. Third time's a charm, they say, and he went to New York with some $10 million and the rest is history.

His mantra was simple: win. For this writer of the comeback blog, that conveys also "never quit." For that tough-as-nails attitude, everyone knew him, and most loved him for it. Not so widely known was his active philanthropic activity, helping others in need, often average Joe's he read about in the newspaper. He didn't seek publicity for these acts.

R.I.P., George Steinbrenner.