Mike Ditka dies at 86

Mike Ditka, legendary Chicago Bears coach who led the 1985 team to a Super Bowl win, has died, his family announced Friday. He was 86.

Family statement

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mike Ditka.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mike Ditka.”

Family tribute

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.

“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.”

Ditka's career

Ditka first played for the Chicago Bears from 1961 to 1966, winning Rookie of the Year after becoming the first tight end to surpass 1,000 receiving yards.

Super Bowl XX win

Ditka led the Chicago Bears to victory in Super Bowl XX, defeating the New England Patriots 46-10 with a 15-1 regular season record.

Ditka's coaching career

Ditka coached the Chicago Bears for 11 seasons, leading them to the NFL playoffs seven times and winning one Super Bowl.

Ditka's legacy

Ditka inspired his team to work hard, do their job and earn their success their own way with mantras like 'you're never a loser until you quit trying.'

“you're never a loser until you quit trying”

Ditka's impact

Ditka's Chicago vernacular, including his change in the pronunciation of 'the' to 'da,' and his iconic appearance remain replicated at games, in Halloween costumes and comedy skits.