The owner of the Indianapolis Colts Jum Irsay died at age 65. The team announced on Wednesday that he passed away “peacefully in his sleep.” They have not listed a cause of death.
Irsay has been with the team since 1997 when he was 37 years old. He was the youngest owner of the team and has led the franchise since then. Previously he served as vice president and general manager under his father Robert Irsay. His father was the one who acquired the Baltimore Colts in 1972 and moved it to Indianapolis in 1984.
During his time, the team saw the championship in 2007 when they defeated the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI. It was their first title after 1970. Apart from that, the team also made 16 playoff appearances and won two AFC championships as well.
The Colts released a detailed statement on Wednesday as tributes began to pour in. Here is the statement released by the Colts.
“We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon. Jim’s dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for his family were unsurpassed. Our deepest sympathies go to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and his entire family as we grieve with them.
Some of Jim’s fondest memories came from his youth working training camps in Baltimore and growing relationships with players, coaches, and staff whom he considered his extended family. He worked in every department before he was named the youngest general manager in team history in 1984 when the Colts arrived in Indianapolis. After he took sole ownership in 1997, he led the Colts to a long series of division titles and brought the city its first Super Bowl Championship. Jim’s love and appreciation for the NFL in addition to its history, tradition, and principles influenced him to become a steward of the game throughout his 50-plus years in the League.
Jim’s generosity can be felt all over Indianapolis, the state of Indiana and the country. He made philanthropy a daily endeavor. He never hesitated to help countless organizations and individuals live better lives. Music was one of Jim’s passions and the ability to share his band and collection with millions of people across the world brought him tremendous joy. Simply put, he wanted to make the world a better place and that philosophy never wavered. Jim will be deeply missed by his family, the Colts organization, and fans everywhere, but we remain inspired by his caring and unique spirit.”
