Legendary Bears Coach Mike Ditka, Dies at 86

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CHICAGO — Mike Ditka, the fiery coach who led the Bears to their historic 1985 Super Bowl championship and became one of the most recognizable figures in Chicago history, died Friday at the age of 86, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow sports figures.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Mike Ditka,” the Ditka family said in a statement. “While the world knew Mike as a Hall of Fame football player, legendary coach, and leader of the Chicago Bears’ Super Bowl XX Championship team, we knew him as the heart of our family. Mike will be missed beyond measure and remembered forever.”

The Bears called Ditka’s impact on the organization “immeasurable,” saying his contributions as a player and coach brought world championships to Chicago and created “a lifetime of cherished memories in the hearts and minds of Bears fans that will last for generations.”

Jarrett Payton, the son of late Bears legend Walter Payton, first announced the news on The Score sports radio Friday morning. Walter Payton played for Ditka for six seasons, and the two won the team’s only Super Bowl in 1985.