Former colleagues, peers react to Parseghian's death

Statement of Notre Dame Head Football Coach Brian Kelly Statement of Athletics Director Jack Swarbrick Statement of former Notre Dame Head Coach Lou Holtz Statement of former player Alan Page

Many former colleagues and peers are remembering late legendary Notre Dame Football coach Ara Parseghian who died Wednesday around 1:30 a.m. at the age of 94.

Parseghian coached at Northwestern University from 1956 - 1963, then coached at Notre Dame from 1964-1974.

US Senator Joe Donnelly spoke with ABC57 about Coach Parseghian
Ara Parseghian is one of my role models, he’s one of my heroes. He led an extraordinary life. He was as fine a human being as you could ever find. He dedicated his life to others. He fought non-stop to cure Niemann-Pick disease Type C. Because of his actions there are going to be people all over the world who survive this because we're closing in on a cure, and we're closing in on a cure because of his efforts and his family's efforts.

Mark Bode, spokesman for South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, released this statement:
Ara Parseghian was a fixture in South Bend in his contributions both on and off the football field. Beyond his two national championship titles that brought pride to the city, it was his involvement in the surrounding community and beyond that solidified his position as a respected leader. We are deeply saddened by his passing and offer our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

Mike Brey‏ via Twitter
A great role model and example of how to teach and coach at this very special place.
Rest In Peace, Coach.
We Have No Breaking Point!

Condoleezza Rice via Facebook
Ara Parseghian's mark on college football will endure. He was a good man, and we'll miss him. Rest in Peace, Ara.

Matthias Farley‏ via Twitter
The world lost a great man today. Your impact will live on ?#EndofAnAra

Tyler Eifert via Twitter
RIP Ara Parseghian, one of the best to ever do it. #WeAreND

Gene Smith via Twitter
Thank you Coach. 
I owe so much to you.
Rest In Peace.

Urban Meyer via Twitter
Incredible coach, leader, mentor & friend. Thanks for all you did for players & coaches of this great game. Prayers to Parseghian family.

Jim Phillips, Northwestern's Vice President for Athletics & Recreation, released this statement:
The entire Northwestern community is saddened by the passing of Coach Ara Parseghian. I was privileged to get to know Coach Parseghian well during my time at Notre Dame, the impact he had on young men during his 25 years coaching at Miami, Northwestern and Notre Dame can not be overstated. Our love and thoughts are with his wife, Katie, and their family during this trying time.

Northwestern's Head Football Coach Pat Fitzgerald released this statement:
The college football family lost a legend today. Coach was a giant in our community not only because of what his teams accomplished on the field, but what his players accomplished off it. His impact will be felt for years to come because of the impression he made on so many, including me. Wildcats everywhere are thinking about Katie and the entire Parseghian family on this heartbreaking day.



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