The man who led the 1985 Bears to a Super Bowl victory died Friday. The team he was most associated with released a statement following Ditka’s passing.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of legendary and treasured Chicago Bear and Pro Football Hall of Famer Mike Ditka,” the Bears said. “Mike’s impact on the Chicago Bears organization has been immeasurable, spanning decades as a player, coach, and proud icon and ambassador for our organization. His pivotal role in bringing world championships to our city and our franchise, as a player and as our coach, established fame and excellence at a world-class level, but also created a a lifetime of memories in the hearts and minds of Bears fans that will last for generations.
“We extend our love, prayers and heartfelt condolences to the Ditka family, and we join all Bears fans in deep sorrow and reverence as we remember and honor Mike Ditka.”
That accurately sums up Ditka’s impact on the Bears and Chicago. He led a magical time for the Bears, and the NFL.
He is rude. He is noisy. He is effective. And he led the Bears to their only Super Bowl title in franchise history.