Dwight Clark, the legendary San Francisco 49ers wide receiver famous for propelling the team to their first Super Bowl win with “The Catch,” has died. He was 61.
The two-time Super Bowl champion was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, also known known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2015 and disclosed his condition in March 2017.
News of his death was made public on Monday via a message from his wife, Kelly, on Clark’s Twitter feed.
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
His former team went on to release a statement that read: “The San Francisco 49ers family has suffered a tremendous loss today with the passing of Dwight Clark. We extend our condolences and prayers to Dwight’s wife, Kelly, his family, friends and fans, as we join together to mourn the death of one of the most beloved figures in 49ers history.
“For almost four decades, he served as a charismatic ambassador for our team and the Bay Area. Dwight’s personality and his sense of humor endeared him to everyone he came into contact with, even during his most trying times. The strength, perseverance and grace with which he battled ALS will long serve as an inspiration to so many. Dwight will always carry a special place in our hearts and his legacy will live on as we continue to battle this terrible disease.”
Clark went down in NFL history for his miraculous play in the 1982 NFC Championship game when he caught the winning touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Montana. The Niners went on to win their first Super Bowl the following month. That period is considered to be the unofficial beginning of a dynasty that would see San Francisco win four world championships in the ’80s, along with eight playoff appearances over 10 seasons.
When the 49ers closed down Candlestick Park in 2013, “The Catch” was named the No. 1 play in the stadium’s history, ESPN reported. The team has since relocated to Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Originally from Kinston, North Carolina, Clark played college football for Clemson before going to the Niners as the first pick of the 10th round of the 1979 NFL Draft.
He retired in 1987 after eight seasons.
Clark is survived by his wife, Kelly, and three children — daughter Casey, and sons Riley and Mac — from a previous marriage.
See footage of “The Catch” in the commemorative tweets below.
One of the most memorable plays in @NFLHistory.
The Catch.
Rest In Peace, Dwight Clark. pic.twitter.com/BhVwwv1xYR
— NFL (@NFL) June 4, 2018
Dwight Clark, who famously made “The Catch” in 1981 NFC Championship, died today. He was 61. pic.twitter.com/WagxJhUkOF
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) June 4, 2018
Rest in Peace, Dwight Clark pic.twitter.com/40jAa0ooAI
— SI Vault (@si_vault) June 4, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of 49ers legend Dwight Clark, who died at 61 after his battle with ALS pic.twitter.com/BdKhhuD1XS
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) June 4, 2018