Former San Francisco 49ers legend Dwight Clark has passed away at the age of 61, his wife, Kelly Clark, announced on Twitter Monday.
I’m heartbroken to tell you that today I lost my best friend and husband. He passed peacefully surrounded by many of the people he loved most. I am thankful for all of Dwight’s friends, teammates and 49ers fans who have sent their love during his battle with ALS. Kelly Clark.
— Dwight Clark (@DwightC87) June 4, 2018
Clark had been battling ALS, a disease he formally announced he’d been diagnosed with last year in March in a letter that was published on DebartoloHoldings.com.
Former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo issued a touching statement on the passing of Clark on Monday afternoon.
Statement from Eddie DeBartolo on the passing of Dwight Clark today. pic.twitter.com/stwUGXHNke
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) June 4, 2018
Recently Clark, famous for hauling in “The Catch” during the 1981 NFC Championship Game, declared that he believed he contracted ALS due to the rigors of playing football.
Beloved by all who knew him, Clark will be missed. May he rest in peace.