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The Kansas City Chiefs were dealt a big blow recently when Hall of Fame Broadcaster Dan Israel passed away.
Israel was a huge part of Chiefs Kingdom, having worked on the Chiefs Radio Network for 35 seasons. Just recently he spoke about how special it was to see Kansas City play in Super Bowl LIX.
"For so many years, we worked this team and didn't experience this game. So, I'm very thankful-not only for the job itself. But for the level of success we're at. Here we are, at the Super Bowl, again. It's amazing. It's amazing," Israel said in the lead up to the game.
Sadly on Thursday 96.5 The Fan, the Chiefs' flagship radio station, announced that Israel had passed away after battling colon cancer for 10 years.
"We're heartbroken over the passing of Dan Israel-an NFL broadcasting legend & Hall of Fame producer. More importantly, a friend and a colleague. His impact on the Chiefs Radio Network is synonymous with the Chiefs Kingdom. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones," read a post on X.
The fact Israel battled for as long as he did is remarkable given he was given just 12 months to live when he was initially diagnosed.
Reid remembers Isreal
Not to mention that Israel didn't let his diagnosis hamper his ability to watch Chiefs games.
It's that determination that head coach Andy Reid pointed to when talking about Israel following news of his passing.
"I was heartbroken to hear about the loss of Dan Israel. Over the last several years, I watched Dan battle this disease with strength and a positive attitude..He was a huge part of the Chiefs Radio Network and the Chiefs football team. I loved Dan Israel, and he will be missed by the Chiefs organization but never forgotten," Reid said on the Chiefs website.
Chiefs fans also took to social media to let their feelings known and mourn the tragic passing of someone who had become synonymous with the team over the years.
"Never will forget growing up hearing his voice during every Chiefs game. What a legend. Thoughts with the family and praying for them. What a shock," wrote one fan.
Another wrote: "So sad. All the way back to the early days listening to him do pregame and the NFL desk at halftime while me and my dad were driving home from the track! I can hear his voice rattling off the scores from the rest of the league. RIP."