Franco Harris, a beloved figure in the world of American football, passed away on December 20, 2022, at the age of 72 at his home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania. His sudden death occurred just three days before the 50th anniversary of the “Immaculate Reception”, a defining moment in NFL history .
Who Was Franco Harris?
Franco Harris was a renowned Hall of Fame running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Born on March 7, 1950, in Fort Dix, New Jersey, he had a remarkable career in football, leaving an indelible mark on the sport .
Family and Personal Life
- Harris is survived by his wife, Dana Dokmanovich, and his son, Franco “Dok” Harris, who also had a notable presence in Pittsburgh politics .
- Tragically, Harris’s brother, Pete Harris, who also played football for Penn State, passed away in 2006 at the age of 49 due to a franco harris cause of death .
Franco Harris’s Career and Impact
Franco Harris had an illustrious career in the NFL, playing primarily for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1972 to 1983 and later for the Seattle Seahawks in 1984. He achieved numerous accolades and milestones, becoming a four-time Super Bowl champion, a Super Bowl MVP, and a nine-time Pro Bowl selection .
The “Immaculate Reception”
Harris is famously remembered for his “Immaculate Reception” in 1972, a momentous play that solidified his place in NFL history and helped propel the Steelers to become one of the most dominant teams of the 1970s .
franco harris cause of death
Franco Harris, the Hall of Fame running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, passed away at the age of 72 at his home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, on December 20, 2022. His cause of death was later ruled as natural causes. His death was considered sudden, as he had been active on social media and had participated in interviews and events just days before his passing. Hall of Fame wide receiver Michael Irvin mentioned that Harris felt exhausted and had been running around quite a bit in anticipation of the weekend’s events, which may have taken a toll on his energy reserves. Despite this, his death came as a surprise, and there were no indications of illness at the time.
Conclusion
Franco Harris’s impact on American football and his contributions to the Pittsburgh Steelers will forever be remembered. His legacy as a remarkable athlete, a philanthropist, and a symbol of resilience and sportsmanship will continue to inspire and resonate with fans and aspiring athletes for generations to come. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his enduring spirit will live on through the memories and achievements he leaves behind.
FAQs
What made Franco Harris famous?
Franco Harris became famous for his exceptional career as a running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers and for his pivotal role in the “Immaculate Reception”, a historic play in NFL history.
What were Franco Harris’s major career achievements?
Harris’s career highlights include being a four-time Super Bowl champion, a Super Bowl MVP, a nine-time Pro Bowl selection, and a member of the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team.
How did Franco Harris pass away?
Franco Harris passed away at the age of 72 in his sleep at his home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania. His death was later ruled as resulting from natural causes.
