Virginia Halas McCaskey, the matriarch of the Chicago Bears franchise, passed away at the age of 102 on Thursday, Feb. 6. McCaskey became the owner of the Bears in 1983 after her father, George Halas, the team’s founder, left the team to her. Under her leadership, the Bears won their first Super Bowl at the end of the 1985 season.
Born in Chicago in 1923, McCaskey studied business management and worked as her father’s secretary. She married Ed McCaskey, who also worked for the Bears, and together they had 11 children. McCaskey was a devout Catholic and was respected by both players and coaches. She attended every Bears game, home and away, and was the oldest owner in major league sports in the United States.
McCaskey’s love for the Bears extended beyond just her family’s interest in the team, as she wanted them to care about the entire NFL. She often spoke to Bears rookies and emphasized the importance of understanding the league’s history and the sacrifices made by the original players.
Her passing marks the end of an era for the Bears franchise, but McCaskey’s legacy as a caring and dedicated owner will live on. She leaves behind a family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who will continue to honor her memory.
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