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Green Bay Packers, NFL legend Bart Starr dead at 85

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Legendary Green Bay Packers quarterback Bart Starr has died, his family confirmed in a statement. He was 85.

The Packers announced that the athlete died Sunday in Birmingham, Alabama, and had been in failing heath in recent years.

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His family issued the following statement:

"We are saddened to note the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bart Starr. He battled with courage and determination to transcend the serious stroke he suffered in September 2014, but his most recent illness was too much to overcome.

"While he may always be best known for his success as the Packers quarterback for 16 years, his true legacy will always be the respectful manner in which he treated every person he met, his humble demeanor, and his generous spirit.

"Our family wishes to thank the thousands of friends and fans who have enriched his life – and therefore our lives – for so many decades and especially during the past five years. Each letter, text, phone call, and personal visit inspired him and filled him with joy.

"His love for all of humanity is well known, and his affection toward the residents of Alabama and of Wisconsin filled him with gratitude. He had hoped to make one last trip to Green Bay to watch the Packers this fall, but he shall forever be there in spirit."

Starr was notable for being the first quarterback ever to win five NFL championships. He played for the Packers from 1956 to 1971, after being drafted by the Packers out of the University of Alabama.

Related: Photos: Notable deaths 2019

The Associated Press reported that his winning score with 16 seconds left in a New Year's Eve game against the Dallas Cowboys in 1967 made him a legend in Green Bay and the league. Starr was head coach of the Packers in the 70s and 80s.

Funeral arrangements are ongoing.