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49ers coach Chip Kelly's father dies

CHICAGO (AP) San Francisco 49ers coach Chip Kelly's father has died.

Kelly coached the team against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, just two days after his dad Paul passed away.

Team spokesman Bob Lange confirmed Chip Kelly flew to New Hampshire late Friday after learning of his father's death. He returned in time for meetings on Saturday evening and coached the team in Sunday's 26-6 loss at Soldier Field.

Kelly was on his way back east after the game to be with his family, including his mother Jean, who did not want him to miss the game. Kelly told CSNBayArea.com, ''My mom wanted me to coach.''

General manager Trent Baalke issued a statement saying Kelly will take some time off before rejoining the team this week.

''Chip has our continued support as he mourns the passing of his father,'' Baalke said.

Paul Kelly, a retired attorney, was a member of the New Hampshire bar from 1960 to 2000.

In a 2009 story about Chip, The Oregonian described Paul Kelly as ''cerebral, successful and competitive.'' He was a fixture at his son's sports practices who emphasized ''Deeds, not words'' to his children.

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