By Marisa Laudadio
5:02am PST, Nov 12, 2023
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Pro Football Hall of Famer Dick Butkus — one of the best middle linebackers to ever play in the NFL — "died peacefully in his sleep overnight at home in Malibu, California," his family announced on Oct. 5.
The Chicago Bears legend — who also enjoyed some Hollywood roles after he retired — was 80. A month later, CBS Sports learned more about what happened after obtaining the star's death certificate from the Los Angeles Department of Public Health: He passed away as a result of a "cerebrovascular accident," or stroke. Secondary causes listed included atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat), high cholesterol and atherosclerosis (thickened or hardened arteries). The document also revealed that Butkus underwent coronary bypass surgery in 2001.
Stars, famous friends, former co-stars and fellow athletes took to social media to mourn the star…
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"In Chicago, Dick Butkus was football. Thinking of his family today, and all the Bears fans who loved watching one of the best to ever play the game." –former President Barack Obama
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"It was fitting the bears won- to honor him – he was larger than football -to Chicagoans – he had less quit in him than anyone who played," John Cusack tweeted.
He later added, "every middle line backer – in some way or another is measured up against him."
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"NFL Hall of Famer and one of the hardest hitting linebackers I've ever seen in my lifetime, Dick Butkus, passed away today. May he rest in peace! Cookie and I are praying for his family and loved ones!" –NBA legend Magic Johnson
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"I'm so sorry to hear that Dick has passed away. He was such a gentle, sweet, quiet man. He didn't say much, but when he did, he was surprisingly funny. He wore Birkenstocks back when we worked together — they weren't trendy then — it seemed to be because he had pain from his football days, and when he walked, he seemed to be in chronic pain. But he never complained about it.
"'My Two Dads' did an episode once that included a highlight reel from what was supposed to be Dick's character's football career. The reel consisted of footage from Dick's own real-life NFL career. When I saw it, I couldn't believe all those massive tackles and sacks came from the gentle giant that I knew." –Dick's "My Two Dads" co-star Staci Keanan (bottom center)
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"I just learned of the passing of @ChicagoBears LB Dick Butkus. My favorite all-time player," WWE wrestler Mick Foley wrote. "I grew up with a poster of Butkus on my wall, and he signed it for me on the one occasion we met. A true legend. #RIPDickButkus."
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"Dick Butkus was a fierce and passionate competitor who helped define the linebacker position as one of the NFL's all-time greats. Dick's intuition, toughness and athleticism made him the model linebacker whose name will forever be linked to the position and the Chicago Bears," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in part in a statement.
"We also remember Dick as a long-time advocate for former players, and players at all levels of the game."
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"Dick Butkus wasn't just one of the greatest football players to ever play the game, he was a remarkable man. 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 " –former NFL player Jarrett Payton, who's also the son of Chicago sports legend Walter Payton
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"One of the greatest linebackers of all time and one heck of [a] guy. Chicago lost a legend. #dickbutkus." –Former Chicago Cubs pitcher and coach Fergie Jenkins
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"Rest in peace, Dick Butkus. LEGEND. One of the few whose name was a synonym for 'NFL'" –Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay
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"Dick was the ultimate Bear, and one of the greatest players in NFL history," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. "He was Chicago's son. He exuded what our great city is about and, not coincidentally, what [late Bears owner and founder] George Halas looks for in a player: toughness, smarts, instincts, passion and leadership.
"He refused to accept anything less than the best from himself, or from his teammates. … 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."
–George McCaskey
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"He was a Chicago Bear if there ever was one," New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick said during a press conference. "I got to spend a little time with him at the NFL 100, at the Super Bowl in Miami when they introduced us. That was great to get to meet him and talk to him. A ton of respect for Dick and his playing style, what he did for the game."
"At that time, the way he played, he was the ultimate middle linebacker," he added. "Tall, long too. He had a lot of length and it was hard to throw around, [and on the] inside."
