Dick Butkus, the legendary NFL linebacker and Chicago Bears icon, passed away on October 5. Remembering his remarkable career and enduring legacy in American football.
Who was Dick Butkus?
Richard Marvin Butkus, known as Dick Butkus, was born on December 9, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois. He played his entire football career in his home state of Illinois, which began at Chicago Vocational High School. He was a linebacker and a center for the Illinois Fighting Illini. He was a twice consensus All-American, and he led the Illini to a Rose Bowl victory in 1963 and was deemed the most valuable player in the Big Ten Conference.
Professional Career
Butkus was selected by the Chicago Bears as the third overall pick in the 1965 NFL Draft. He played for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL) from 1965 to 1973. He was invited to eight Pro Bowls, named a first-team All-Pro six times, and was twice recognized by his peers as the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year. He was renowned as a fierce tackler and for the relentless effort with which he played and is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most intimidating linebackers in professional football history.
Later Life and Death
Dick Butkus passed away on October 5, 2023, at the age of 80 in Malibu, California.
How did Dick Butkus die?
Dick Butkus, the legendary linebacker for the Chicago Bears, passed away in his sleep at his home in Malibu, California. The exact cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.
Dick Butkus Family
Dick Butkus was married to his high school sweetheart, Helen Essenhart, in 1963. They had three children: Ricky (born in 1964), Matt (born in 1966), and Nikki (born in 1970). They also had nine grandchildren. They lived in Malibu, California for many years until Butkus passed away.
Dick Butkus Net Worth
As for his net worth, there are varying estimates. Some sources estimate Dick Butkus’s net worth to be around $8 million, while others estimate it to be as high as $18 million at the time of his death. He earned most of his wealth from his football career, as well as from his acting career.
FAQ
Q: When was Dick Butkus born?
A: Dick Butkus was born on December 9, 1942.
Q: When did Dick Butkus pass away?
A: Dick Butkus passed away on October 5, 2023.
Q: Which team did Dick Butkus play for in the NFL?
A: Dick Butkus played for the Chicago Bears in the NFL from 1965 to 1973.
Q: How many times was Dick Butkus named a first-team All-Pro?
A: Dick Butkus was named a first-team All-Pro six times.