Former Iowa football coach Hayden Fry passes away

Former Iowa football coach Hayden Fry died on Tuesday at the age of 90 after battling cancer, according to a statement from the University of Iowa. Fry led the Hawkeyes from 1979-1998 helping Iowa to three Big Ten titles.

Fry finished with a career head coaching record of 233-177-10 with 143 of those victories coming at Iowa. The Texas native led the Hawks to a Rose Bowl appearance in the 1981, 1985 & 1990 seasons. Fry was also the head coach at SMU from 1962-1972 and at North Texas State from 1973-1978.

Quotes Courtesy: The University of Iowa

Fry Family on the passing of Hayden Fry:
"With our family at his side, Hayden Fry, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away following a lengthy battle with cancer. We are comforted in our faith and knowing that Hayden is no longer suffering and resides now in heaven with our Lord. Hayden passed on Dec. 17, at the age of 90.

We are proud to know that our father's life had a positive influence on so many people, the players, the coaches, and the fans who played for, worked with, and supported his long and successful coaching career. His legend will live forever with the people he touched and inspired, and the programs he led to greater heights.

Though Hayden was born in Texas and moved there more recently to be closer to our family, his love for the University of Iowa, his players and coaches, the people of Iowa, and the state of Iowa, is well known. Hayden often shared, "I'll Always Be a Hawkeye".

Our family would like to pass along our heartfelt thanks to the caregivers who made Hayden's comfort their priority.

We cannot thank everyone enough for their love and support. Your thoughts and prayers are truly appreciated."

Memorial Services are pending and will be announced at a later date.

Kirk Ferentz statement of condolences on the passing of Hayden Fry
"Hayden Fry is a college football icon and an Iowa legend. His Hall of Fame career is well known, but personally, he will always be the man who took a chance on me at the start of my coaching career. I was proud to coach with him and honored to succeed him when he retired. He has been a great mentor and a true friend. I am forever grateful to him.

Mary and I send our heartfelt condolences to his wife Shirley, their children, and the entire Fry family. We hope that Hayden's legacy of integrity and high character will provide his family comfort during this difficult time."