Larry Fitzgerald Sr., a revered veteran sportswriter and broadcaster, and the father of NFL Hall of Famer Larry Fitzgerald Jr., passed away on June 1 at the age of 71. His death comes just weeks before his son's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, marking a poignant moment for the Fitzgerald family and the sports community. The news was shared by his sons, who remembered him as a pillar of strength and inspiration.
Larry Fitzgerald Jr. posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, stating: > "My father was a man of strength, love and encouragement. He opened countless doors for me and my brother. He believed in us and pushed us to pursue every opportunity with conviction, he was the rock of our family. He taught us that perseverance, hard work, and unwavering commitment are the foundations of a meaningful life and personal success. I will carry his love, words, and wisdom with me always."
A Chicago native, Fitzgerald Sr. built a distinguished career spanning over 40 years in Minnesota sports journalism. He was a prominent voice on Black community radio station KMOJ-FM starting in 1978 and gained recognition for his work with the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. Notably, he covered 40 Super Bowls, including the historic Super Bowl XLIII where his son, Larry Fitzgerald Jr., played for the Arizona Cardinals, making him the first reporter to cover his own child in the championship game.
Beyond his professional achievements, Fitzgerald Sr. was deeply committed to community causes. Following the passing of his wife, Carol Fitzgerald, from breast cancer in 2003, he established the Carol Fitzgerald Memorial Fund, supporting breast cancer and HIV research. His son, Marcus Fitzgerald, also shared a statement, describing his father as: > "A devoted father, husband, grandfather, and a true pioneer in the Minnesota broadcasting community, he spent his life pouring into the people and the city he loved so much."
Larry Fitzgerald Sr.'s legacy extends beyond his journalistic contributions, encompassing his profound impact as a father and community figure. His passing has elicited an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues, acknowledging his significant influence on Minnesota sports and the lives he touched. His memory will undoubtedly be a guiding force as Larry Fitzgerald Jr. prepares for his Hall of Fame induction.
