Green Bay Packers Legend, Bart Starr, Dies at 85

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Bart Starr, the legendary quarterback who guided the Green Bay Packers to five NFL championships has died at the age of 85, his family announced Sunday.

“We are saddened to note the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bart Starr," a statement by the family released by the Packers said. "He battled with courage and determination to transcend the serious stroke he suffered in September 2014, but his most recent illness was too much to overcome.

"While he may always be best known for his success as the Packers quarterback for 16 years, his true legacy will always be the respectful manner in which he treated every person he met, his humble demeanor, and his generous spirit.

"Our family wishes to thank the thousands of friends and fans who have enriched his life – and therefore our lives – for so many decades and especially during the past five years. Each letter, text, phone call, and personal visit inspired him and filled him with joy.

"His love for all of humanity is well known, and his affection toward the residents of Alabama and of Wisconsin filled him with gratitude. He had hoped to make one last trip to Green Bay to watch the Packers this fall, but he shall forever be there in spirit."

Starr played quarterback for the Packers between 1956 and 1971, surprising many with his performance as a starter. He was 3-15-1 as a starter and three 13 touchdown passes and 25 interceptions. He is also known for leading the Packers to victory in the first two Super Bowls: I and II. Starr was also the only quarterback in NFL history to lead a team to three consecutive league championships. He later went on to work as the coach for the Packers between 1975 and 1983, but after going 8-8 in 1983, the organization finally let him go.

Starr was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Packers Hall of Fame in 1977.

In recent years, Starr had been mainly working on charity endeavors and as a speaker until his health began declining in 2012.

Photo: Getty Images


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