Bill McCartney, the former Colorado head coach who led the Buffaloes to a national title in 1990, has died at the age of 84. His son, Mike McCartney, posted a statement from the family on social media on Friday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bill McCartney, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, who peacefully left this world at the age of 84 after a courageous journey with dementia,” the statement said.
“Coach Mac touched countless lives with his unwavering faith, boundless compassion and lasting legacy as a leader, mentor and advocate for family, community and faith. As a pioneer and visionary, his impact was felt both on and off the field. and his spirit will forever will always remain in the hearts of those he inspired.
“As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary life he lived and the love he shared with everyone around him. We are grateful for the outpouring of prayers and support during this time and ask for privacy as we navigate this difficult moment.”
In lieu of flowers, the family asked people to donate to a local church in McCartney’s name.
McCartney coached at Colorado from 1982 to 1994, leading the team to three Big Eight titles and the school’s first national title. Through thirteen seasons, McCartney had more wins and bowl appearances than any other coach in school history.
In a statement from the school, Colorado athletic director Rick George spoke about his friendship with McCartney, who hired him as a recruiting coordinator in 1987. George said he visited McCartney last week to say goodbye before he passed away.
“Coach Mac was an incredible man who taught me about the importance of faith, family and being a good husband, father and grandfather. He instilled discipline and responsibility in all who worked and played under his leadership. The mark he left on CU football and our athletic department will be difficult to copy,” George said in the statement. “I have many fond memories of Coach Mac and will hold them close to my heart.”
McCartney was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in 1999 and added to the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006. He was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013, the school’s only coach to be recognized.