Esteemed Sports Journalist Larry Fitzgerald Sr. Passes Away at 71, Honored by His NFL Star Son

Larry Fitzgerald Sr., a prominent sports journalist known for his extensive coverage of Minnesota athletics for nearly five decades, has passed away at the age of 71. His family announced the news on social media, stating that he "left us peacefully this afternoon, surrounded by his family and loved ones."

The Fitzgerald family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support during this challenging time, particularly thanking the staff at Fairview Southdale Hospital. Larry Fitzgerald Jr., the NFL Hall of Famer and son of Fitzgerald Sr., shared heartfelt memories, describing his father as a "man of strength, love and encouragement." He credited his father with opening numerous doors for him and his brother Marcus, emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance that Fitzgerald Sr. instilled in them.

Fitzgerald Sr. began his illustrious journalism career in 1978 and spent over 45 years as a columnist for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, after starting in radio. His commitment to sports journalism was evident, as he frequently attended games to cover his son's career, including the memorable Super Bowl XLIII, where he was possibly the first journalist to cover his own child in such a significant event.

The Minnesota Vikings organization expressed its sorrow over Fitzgerald Sr.'s passing, praising him as a "distinguished journalist and trusted voice in Minnesota sports." They highlighted his ability to forge meaningful relationships within the sports community and his dedication to the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.

Fitzgerald Jr., who played his entire 17-year career with the Arizona Cardinals before retiring in 2020, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame earlier this year. The legacy of Larry Fitzgerald Sr. will undoubtedly endure through the impact he made on his family and the sports journalism community.