Steve McMichael, a celebrated figure in Chicago Bears history, has passed away at 67 after a courageous fight with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).
His death came Wednesday evening, surrounded by family and close friends.
Jarrett Payton, former NFL running back and son of Walter Payton, shared the news on social media, expressing gratitude for being by McMichael’s side in his final moments.
ALS and Its Impact
ALS, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurological condition that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the loss of muscle control.
McMichael’s battle with ALS was public, and his family has shown tremendous strength throughout this difficult journey.
A Legacy of Strength
Steve McMichael will forever be remembered for his remarkable career with the Bears, particularly his crucial role in the team’s victory at the 1985 Super Bowl.
His 13 seasons with the Bears were filled with dedication and toughness, and he still holds the franchise record for the most consecutive games played (191).
His death came just hours after news broke that he had been moved into hospice care, marking a somber moment for the team and the city.
Earlier that day, McMichael’s wife, Misty, shared that he had been removed from a ventilator in ICU and was being transferred to a hospice facility.
His health had been declining, and he had been unresponsive for the past two weeks.
A Final Tribute
In an emotional moment last August, McMichael was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame while bedridden at home.
Despite his health struggles, he was honored as one of the Class of 2024 inductees.
His ceremony was held at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois, where teammates, family, and friends gathered to witness this poignant tribute.
McMichael, wearing his gold jacket, had his bronze bust unveiled in a ceremony filled with love and respect from his fellow Bears.
Richard Dent, a Hall of Famer and McMichael’s former teammate, shared a heartfelt message, welcoming him to “football heaven.”
The support from his teammates, who had been with him every step of the way, was clear as they expressed their admiration and love for Mongo, McMichael’s well-known nickname.
A Hall of Fame Career
McMichael’s legacy was cemented when he became the fourth defensive player from the 1985 Super Bowl-winning Bears to enter the Hall of Fame, joining the ranks of other legendary players like Dent, Mike Singletary, and Dan Hampton.
His sister, Kathy, read a speech she had worked on with him before he lost the ability to speak, thanking the Bears, their fans, and the city of Chicago for supporting him throughout his career.
“I played 15 years in the NFL and loved every minute of every down,” Kathy McMichael said, her words echoing the pride her brother felt for his remarkable career.
McMichael’s contributions to the game, especially his role in one of the NFL’s most feared defenses, will never be forgotten.
As the city of Chicago mourns his loss, Steve McMichael’s impact on the Bears and the NFL is undeniable, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who admired him both on and off the field.