Three months after Don Hasselbeck’s 70th birthday, he suffered a fatal heart attack. Though he spent his last days with the New England Patriots and the Oakland Raiders as an NFL player, Don’s legacy goes beyond just spirited football. Without a doubt, his family will remember him as a man of faith who displayed undying devotion towards his loved ones. Along with his son, Matt, they will cherish him as the poster family man while he will inspire people for years to come.
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Indeed, the world received shocking news of the former leading NFL player’s demise last month. Dons surprised everyone with riding the wave of exhilarating patriotism splashed everywhere until recently. Even at the age of seventy, there was so much more life to him. Not to mention the hassle of managing his family, friends, and admirers. It was only expected him to pass off the heart of his loved ones. His son, Matt Hasselbeck somehow had the “honor” of sharing the terrible news out of nowhere to the country while forced to reflect on the sky-high legacy of his father. Wherever literal or sprinting, the father will always serve as an unbelievable role model and legendary player.
Don Hasselbeck's NFL career included time with several teams, including good time with the New England Patriots and Oakland Raiders. After being drafted by the Patriots in 1977, Don played seven seasons for them, and then had a productive run with the Raiders where he won a Super Bowl ring in 1983. Known as a steady player and solid personal presence on the field, Don played a role in the Raiders victory in Super Bowl XVIII getting a block on an extra point in the team win against Washington. Don's contributions went beyond his favorable on the field statistics - in 123 games and 30 starts, Don had 107 receptions for 1,542 yards. His legacy, however, had to do with how he went about living his life. Don was a devoted husband to Betsy for 50 years, a loving father to Matt and Tim, and grandfather. Don was a man of faith who loved his family. Matt shared how Don's prayer journals were filled with colorful notes about and prayers for his family, which captured the essence of his being a spiritual leader and caring mentor.
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Don's feats in athletics will never be forgotten, but it will be his identity as a family man and faithful servant that will establish his legacy. He established the groundwork for his family through his steadfast love and commitment, which will endure on the hearts of those who knew him. The death of Don Hasselbeck leaves a permanent void in so many hearts, but his life stands as a vivid reminder of the role family, faith, and love have in weaving the fabric of our community. His game and contributions to the sport of football, coupled with his noble role as a central hub of his family, will carry on for generation after generation.