GLENDALE, Ariz. -- The family of Minnie Minoso released a statement Sunday thanking fans for their support after the Chicago White Sox legend passed away of natural causes at age 90:

“Our entire family appreciates the kind expressions of concern, sympathy and compassion from so many of our friends and fans of the White Sox during this most difficult time. Minnie lived a full life of joy and happiness, surrounded always by friends and family. It is during moments like these that love matters most.

“Minnie enjoyed nothing more than to be at the ballpark cheering on his White Sox. For Minnie, every day was a reason to smile, and he would want us all to remember him that way, smiling at a ballgame. As he so often said, ‘God Bless you, my friends.’

“Thank you for respecting our family and our privacy during this trying time.”

No funeral arrangements have been announced. The White Sox are planning to honor Minoso throughout the 2015 season.