Dick Butkus, the iconic Chicago Bears legend and former player, passed away on Wednesday, October 4, at the age of 80.
His family officially announced his peaceful passing on Thursday, October 5, revealing that he died in his sleep at home in Malibu, California.
The statement read: “The Butkus family is gathering with Dick’s wife Helen. They appreciate your prayers and support.”
Butkus, a linebacker for the Bears from 1965 to 1978, transitioned from college football at the University of Illinois. Hailing from Chicago, he became a beloved hometown hero.
The revered athlete’s jersey, No. 51, was retired by the team in 1994 as a tribute to his lasting impact. Inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1979, Butkus left an enduring legacy.
During his NFL tenure, Butkus started in 119 games for the Bears. A two-time Defensive Player of the Year, he earned eight Pro Bowl selections and was named an All-Pro seven times in his nine seasons.
He earned prestigious spots on the NFL’s 1960s All-Decade Team, 1970s All-Decade Team, 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, and 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, establishing Butkus as an enduring great in his position.
In 1985, the Butkus Award was established, recognizing the top high school, college, and professional linebackers each year.
Transitioning from football, Butkus ventured into sports broadcasting and made a mark in Hollywood with roles in films such as 1974’s The Longest Yard, 1991’s Necessary Roughness, and 1999’s Any Given Sunday.
“Dick Butkus wasn’t just one of the greatest football players to ever play the game, he was a remarkable man,” retired running back Jarrett Payton wrote via an X tribute on Thursday. “He was always there for me when I needed him. Now, these 3 #Bears legends are in heaven, sharing a drink, getting ready to watch the #TNF game from the best seats. Here’s to you, @thedickbutkus. Your spirit will live on forever. #RIPButkus 🙏🏽🐻⬇️ #NFL.”
In a Thursday statement, Bears chairman George H. McCaskey paid tribute to Butkus, referring to the late player as “the ultimate Bear” and one of the greatest in NFL history.
McCaskey added: “He was Chicago’s son. He exuded what our great city is about. … 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.”
Survived by his wife, Helen Essenhart, whom he married in 1963, Butkus leaves a lasting legacy through his three children—Ricky, Matt, and Nikki Butkus—as well as his grandchildren.