"The Sparky Anderson family - wife, Carol, Lee and son Albert and daughter Shirley Englebrecht - would like to thank all friends and fans for the support and kindness they have shown throughout the quarry and Sparky Anderson 's retirement "the statement read.
"The family is particularly grateful for the respect the privacy of national and local media has shown during this difficult time."
Sparky Anderson, 76, led the Reds to World Series titles in 1975 and '76 and led the Tigers to a World Series victory in 1984 to become the first manager to win the World Series both a national and League U.S. team.
He managed the Reds from 1970-78, leading the club to the World Series four times and finishing with a 863-586 record. He was the captain of the Tigers 1979-95 and posted a record 1.331 to 1248 while winning AL Manager of the Year honors in 1985 and '87.
"We are very sad to hear news about the failing health of Sparky Anderson's, the Reds president and CEO Bob Castellini said in a statement. "Every day we are reminded here of his contribution to the success of this franchise proud. Family Reds' offer her prayers and support to Sparky Anderson and his family during this difficult time. "
Sparky Anderson compiled 2,194 wins in his 26 years as a manager of number six on the list of all time. It is also the manager of victories in the history of the Tigers with 1,331 victories.
He remained active in the Detroit community after his retirement, continuing his role with blocking, which he founded in 1987 in order to help improve the quality of life of sick, injured and at-risk children who receive care Children's Hospital of Michigan andHenry Ford Hospital.
Sparky Anderson attended the meeting of the 1984 Tigers at Comerica Park in September 2009 and the enthronement ceremony of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, earlier this year.
Sparky Anderson Interview Video