Steelers Chair
Dan Rooney, one of the “the most powerful and beloved owners in sports," died yesterday at the age of 84. A "powerful voice in the NFL for decades, often out of the public eye, he helped settle two players’ strikes." He also "fought to give more opportunities for minority coaches to ascend in the NFL, an effort that prompted the adoption of what is known as the Rooney Rule." He was elected to the Pro Football HOF in '00 (
PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE, 4/14). Rooney is survived by his wife of 65 years,
Patricia, as well as "seven children, 20 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and four brothers" (
L.A. TIMES, 4/14).
A funeral mass will be held Tuesday at St. Paul Cathedral in Oakland, Pa. There will also be a "gathering for family and friends" Monday at the PNC Champions Club at Heinz Field (POST-GAZETTE.com, 4/13). The Pro Football HOF this weekend "will fly its flag at half-staff" (NFL.com, 4/13).
Former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue perhaps summed it up best last night by saying, “Dan Rooney was an extraordinary man of faith, conviction, reason and peace. He loved his family, his Steelers and his Pittsburgh. His values were of America, Ireland and his Church. He was an inspiration to millions throughout America, and in many other lands. He was at home on mean streets, in lockerrooms and chapels, with Presidents, Popes, poets and visionaries. Few have served so many so well. Dan was my mentor, role model, indispensable supporter and great friend during five decades. In the NFL, he is irreplaceable” (THE DAILY). NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell: "Few men have contributed so much to the National Football League. ... He was one of the finest men in the history of our game" (NFL).
One of Rooney’s closets friends, Panthers Owner
Jerry Richardson stated,
“Dan was a cornerstone of the National Football League and leaves a lasting mark on the game he loved both on and off the field" (
WASHINGTON POST, 4/14). Giants President & CEO
John Mara: "Dan Rooney was one of the greatest owners in all of professional sports. … He leaves a legacy on our sport that will last for generations" (
TRIBLIVE.com, 4/13). Cowboys Owner
Jerry Jones: "He was a steward and a guardian for the growth and popularity of the NFL, because he loved the game so much" (
Cowboys).
President Obama, who appointed Rooney ambassador to Ireland, said in a statement, "He was a great friend to the people of Pittsburgh, a model citizen, and someone who represented the United States with dignity and grace on the world stage" (
NFL.com, 4/13). One of the most memorable quotes we remember came from Steelers great
Joe Greene, when he introduced Rooney before his HOF induction. Greene: "Dan has always lead with humility. When things go as planned, Dan is in the background. When things don't go as planned, he's in the forefront" (
THE DAILY).
