Doug Flutie announced in a Facebook post Wednesday afternoon both of his parents, father Dick and mother Joan, passed away within one hour of each other.
Flutie’s statement in full:
It is with a heavy heart that I am making this statement. This morning my family experienced the tragic loss of my father, Dick and mother, Joan. My Dad had been ill and died of a heart attack in the hospital and my Mom, less than an hour later had a sudden heart attack and passed away. They say you can die of a broken heart and I believe it. I would like to honor my parents for all that they did throughout my and my brothers’ and sister’s lives. My parents were always there for their children, from the days my Dad coached us as kids and my Mom would work the concession stands, through to this morning. The most important part of their 56 years of marriage was providing opportunities to their children. They were incredible parents and Grandparents and my family and I will miss them both. On behalf of me and the entire Flutie family, I would like to thank you all for your well wishes and prayers during this difficult time.
A College Football Hall of Famer and the 1984 Heisman Trophy winner, Flutie played quarterback and Boston College and currently serves as the color analyst on NBC’s Notre Dame package. The Irish and Eagles will meet Saturday at Fenway Park, and Flutie served as the model for the 1980’s throwback uniforms BC will don for the game.
It is unknown at this time if Flutie will broadcast this weekend’s game.
NBC Sports and NBC Sports Network executive producer Sam Flood offered the following statement:
“Everyone in the NBC Sports family was saddened to learn today of the tragic news regarding the passing of Doug’s parents, Dick and Joan. As a valuable colleague, teammate, and friend, we know what an important role Doug’s parents played in his life. We offer our most sincere condolences to Doug and the entire Flutie family during this difficult time.”
