Packers legend Bart Starr dies at 85
The Green Bay Packers announced Sunday that franchise legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Bart Starr died earlier in the day at the age of 85. His health had been failing since he suffered a stroke in 2014.
"We are saddened to note the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bart Starr," read a message from the former quarterback's family.
"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."
Starr won five NFL championships with the Packers, including Super Bowls I and II, which both saw him named MVP. He played for Green Bay from 1956 to 1971 and coached the team from 1975 to 1983. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977.
Starr's 16 years spent under center for the Packers have only been matched by Brett Favre. His last appearance at Lambeau Field came the night Favre's number was retired in November 2015.
"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," Starr's family added in its statement.
"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."