Larry Fitzgerald Sr., a revered figure in the Minnesota sports journalism landscape, has passed away at the age of 71. His family confirmed that he died peacefully on June 1, surrounded by loved ones. A significant contributor to the field of sports journalism, Fitzgerald Sr. dedicated an impressive 45 years of his life to covering Minnesota sports for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. His legacy extends beyond journalism, encompassing his role as a cherished father and community leader.
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The announcement was made public through social media, with Fitzgerald Jr., an NFL Hall of Famer, expressing deep gratitude for the support they received during this challenging period, particularly from the staff at Fairview Southdale Hospital. In his heartfelt tribute, Fitzgerald Jr. described his father as a “man of strength, love and encouragement,” who played a pivotal role in the lives of both him and his brother, Marcus Fitzgerald. “He opened countless doors for me and my brother,” Fitzgerald Jr. shared, emphasizing the profound impact his father had on their pursuits.
Born in Chicago, Fitzgerald Sr. carved out his career in the world of sports journalism shortly after relocating to Minnesota in 1978. His initial foray was in radio broadcasting, but it was his role as a columnist for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder that solidified his status in the community. Throughout his extensive career, Fitzgerald Sr. became a familiar face in press boxes, particularly during critical games that involved his son.
Notably, Fitzgerald Sr. may have become one of the first journalists to cover his own son in a Super Bowl, when Larry Fitzgerald Jr. played for the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII in 2009. Despite the personal connection, he maintained a professional stance, stating, “I won’t cheer… I’m going to stay objective. I’ve come too far to suddenly show up in the press box with pompoms.” His words highlighted the balance he struck between personal pride and journalistic integrity, admitting that inside, he felt like he belonged to a “whole fan club.”
The impact of Fitzgerald Sr.’s life and work reverberated throughout the Minnesota sports community. The Minnesota Vikings issued a statement recognising his contributions as both a journalist and a community pillar. “Larry built relationships with players, coaches, and staff across local teams and was a well-regarded figure throughout the NFL, covering numerous Super Bowls and significant events,” the statement read.
In addition to his journalistic achievements, Fitzgerald Sr. was known for his unwavering dedication to his family and community. The Viking’s statement conveyed condolences to Larry Jr., Marcus, and the entire Fitzgerald family, illustrating the love and respect felt for Fitzgerald Sr. by his peers and the wider public alike.
The legacy of Larry Fitzgerald Sr. will undoubtedly continue through his son, who enjoyed a distinguished 17-year career with the Arizona Cardinals before retiring in 2020. Fitzgerald Jr. has since been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a testament to both his own athletic prowess and the values instilled in him by his father.
As friends, family, and colleagues remember Fitzgerald Sr., they reflect on a life marked by passion, commitment, and profound impact. His contributions to sports journalism and his unwavering support for his family will not be forgotten. His death marks the loss of a respected voice in Minnesota sports, but his influence will continue to resonate within the community he cherished.