Chicago Bears Icon Dick Butkus' Passing At 80 Evokes Nostalgia Among Fans

Dick Butkus, a revered Hall of Fame middle linebacker for the Chicago Bears has sadly passed away at the age of 80.

The death of the Chicago native, known by many as one of the most formidable defensive players in NFL history, was confirmed by his family in a statement. Butkus achieved numerous accolades during his football career, including being named to the NFL All-Decade Teams for both the 1960s and 1970s. 

Paramedics were called to Butkus's Malibu home around 12:51 p.m. on Thursday, October 5 in response to a medical emergency. Unfortunately, the former linebacker was declared deceased at the scene, with reports claiming that he was discovered unresponsive during a welfare check at his residence. 

His family subsequently confirmed that the sports commentator had passed away 'peacefully' overnight. They wrote in a brief announcement:

"The Butkus Family confirms that football and entertainment legend Dick Butkus died peacefully in his sleep overnight at home in Malibu, Calif. The Butkus family is gathering with Dick's wife Helen. They appreciate your prayers and support."

The news expectedly rocked the world of many NFL fans and they ensured that they flooded the social media space with their thoughts and favorite memories of him.

"Dick Butkus presenting that ball to the defender after the TD in 1971 was priceless. RIP," one person penned above a video of the iconic football moment, while another threw it back to an "epic Dick Butkus exchange" with a screenshot as proof. 

Similarly, Bears wide receiver, DJ Moore conveyed, "R.I.P Dick Butkus 🙏💫 Was looking over us Tonight," and another fan called the 2019 press conference held in honor of the late NFL stars statue dedication "pure gold."

"RIP Dick Butkus, #Bears legend. One of the most feared players in NFL history," this NFL historian expressed, and Turning Point USA founder, Charlie Kirk, posted, "RIP to Chicago Bears legend Dick Butkus. They don't make NFL players like that anymore."

The NFL analyst for CBS, Bill Cowher also effused, "Dick Butkus was not only a Legend, he was my Idol. Loved his Frankness, Toughness, and the Inspiration he was for me! You set the Standard for the role of a MLB! Love you Dick ❤️."  

""I watched his highlight reel every day before I left my house to go play in my High School Football games ... He was the most feared, most tenacious player to ever play the game." @golic remembers Dick Butkus," a sixth X read. 

NFL host Rich Eisen dubbed Butkus "One of the all-time greats who personified the style of play of the franchise he played for and also for the city and state in which he played." After noting his sadness at the "passing of one of the all-time great humans, Eisen acknowledged the attached image, writing:

"This photo is from an interview I had with Dick at the first-ever NFL Draft held in Chicago in 2015. What an honor and thrill. Rest in peace."

ESPN host, Mike Greenberg, added, "In the long, storied and glorious history of pro football, there has been no legend greater, no name more revered, no man more feared. Rest in peace, Dick Butkus, and thank you for leaving us all in awe every damn day of your life."

Butkus' death was additionally addressed by Bears chairman George H. McCaskey, who communicated through a statement:

"Dick was the ultimate Bear, and one of the greatest players in NFL history. He was Chicago's son. He exuded what our great city is about and, not coincidentally, what George Halas looked for in a player: toughness, smarts, instincts, passion and leadership."

McCaskey confessed that the late professional football player "refused to accept anything less than the best from himself, or from his teammates." After acknowledging the 80-year-old's "gruff manner" that seemingly prevented "people from approaching him," the 67-year-old claimed that "he actually had a soft touch."

"His contributions to the game he loved will live forever and we are grateful he was able to be at our home opener this year to be celebrated one last time by his many fans. We extend our condolences to Helen, Dick's high school sweetheart and wife of 60 years, and their family," the statement concluded. 

Throughout his illustrious career, Butkus achieved six All-NFL selections, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, and was selected to eight Pro Bowls. Per the Bears website, "The NFL Today" pre-game host's ferocious style of play earned him various nicknames, including "The Maestro of Mayhem," "The Enforcer," "The Animal," and "The Robot of Destruction."

Following his retirement from football in 1973, Butkus transitioned into acting and became a well-known actor, featuring in numerous movies and television shows like "My Two Dads," "MacGyver," "Hang Time,"  "Brian's Song," "The Longest Yard," and "Any Given Sunday."