Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), and several other Pennsylvania lawmakers, commented on the death of college coaching legend Joe Paterno Sunday. Mr. Paterno died at Mount Nittany Medical Center at the age of 85 from lung cancer Sunday morning, reports USA Today.
“I was saddened to hear of the passing of Joe Paterno. His long career at Penn State is unrivaled and his accomplishments as the winningest coach in major college football will certainly not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, Mr. Casey said in a statement.
Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) also commented on Mr. Paterno’s death. “I want to send my condolences to Joe Paterno’s family and the Penn State community. Joe dedicated his life to college athletics and higher education. His enormous role in building Penn State into the institution it has become will never be forgotten,” Mr. Toomey said.
Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) released his remarks on college football’s winningest coach. “Today we lost a true champion, a great coach and mentor, and a gentleman who’s commitment to education and college athletics has been unparalleled,” Mr. Thompson said.
“Coach Paterno’s legendary status will live on in the hearts and minds of all football fans, Penn State Alumni, and especially the residents of Happy Valley. My wife and I want to express our deepest condolences to the entire Paterno family. They will remain in our thoughts and prayers,” Mr. Thompson added.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Mr. Paterno started his career with Penn State University in 1950 and was given command of the university’s football program in 1966. During his tenure at Penn State, Mr. Paterno chalked up 409 victories and two national titles. Mr. Paterno was also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.
