Jim Ilsai, the owner of the legendary Colts, dies
Jim Ilsai, owner of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away at the age of 65.
Longtime Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Ilsai has passed away at the age of 65, the team said in a statement Wednesday.
“We are devastating to announce our beloved owner and CEO, Jim Ilsai.
“In addition to Jim’s generosity, commitment to the community and, most importantly, his love for his family, his dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts were not surprised. Our deepest sympathy will ensure that Carly Ilsai Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kaylen Jackson and all of his family will grieve them.”
Irsay was 12 years old when his father, Robert Irsay, bought Baltimore Colts in 1972. Jim Irsay took on a variety of roles throughout the organization before becoming the team’s vice president and general manager in 1984.
Irsay took on the daily management of the Colts in 1995 after his father suffered a stroke. He went on to oversee one of the most successful periods in the history of the franchise. This began when the team selected Hall of Fame quarterback Payton Manning, the No. 1 overall pick in the 1998 NFL Draft.
Irsay was deeply involved in the Indianapolis community, as the team said in a statement.
“The generosity of the gym can be felt in Indianapolis, Indiana and across the country,” the team wrote. “He made charity a daily endeavor. He didn’t hesitate to help countless organizations and individuals lead a better life. Music was one of Jim’s passions, and his ability to share his bands with millions of people around the world has brought him tremendous joy. A unique spirit.”
Many from around the NFL world paid tribute to Arsay after his death, including Peyton Manning. Below are some of the most notable tributes to the late Colts owners.
Payton Manning responds to Jim Ilsai’s death
Pat McAfee responds to Jim Ilsai’s death
Former Colts Punter McAfee shared a lengthy message on social media.
“This is devastating. Jim had friendships with many of his former players. I was lucky enough to be one of them.
“It was an honor to play for the team that Irsay ran for. He was interesting, brilliant, unique and somehow very relevant to the man who became the sole owner of the NFL team at the age of 37.
“He fought his demons, and as we all do, God blessed Jim Ilsai with rich compassion.
“After the lockout in 2011, he and I actually attended training camp, where players and front office were not allowed to communicate with each other during lockout, but Jim followed me on Twitter during CBA negotiations. On his first day at training camp, right after the lockout ended, he won a golf cart. World .. He appreciated being able to share some of his thoughts in his own way.
“He was a big fan of the brains of a creative artist. Everything he did was all he wanted to do in a big, imaginative way. His Twitter giveaway was just that.
“People who meet him will say that it looks like he’s woken up every day so he wants to help people.
“Truly anomaly.
“When I decided to retire, he and I had a 2.5 hour conversation in his office. He was sitting at his desk.
“He tried to stop me for a few minutes. Even offered to renegotiate my contract, and after he realized my decision had been made, the combo tried to give him as many games as possible about running the business and maintaining authenticity.
“If for some reason this doesn’t work or you don’t want to do it anymore, you’re always working with the Colts. You’re a family.”
“Since that day… Jim did everything he could to help me succeed. He attended our show wherever I was in the world, whenever I asked.
“Jim was real, and we all missed (the crap) from him.
“I send my positive prayers and atmosphere to his daughters, his grandchildren, his loved ones, his staff and everyone who has worked with Jim for the past 40 years.
“Thank you to all the big names. You were a damn legend. Relax, brother.”
Former Colts, NFL world reacts to Jim Ilsai’s death
The USA Today app will bring you to the heart of the news – Fast. Downloads for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, EnewSpaper and more.
