Fans share condolences and memories of late KC Chiefs quarterback Len Dawson
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The legacy of Len Dawson
Kansas City sports icon Len Dawson, who led the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl triumph, has died at the age of 87.
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When the Dallas Texans relocated to Kansas City in 1963, the franchise had one distinct advantage: a star quarterback.
Len Dawson had been a first team All-Pro during the franchise’s final season in Dallas, and he would build off that success during the next 13 seasons in Kansas City. Dawson helped the Chiefs make a pair of Super Bowl appearances and they beat the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IV.
Dawson was MVP of that Super Bowl and he later was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. After he playing days, he was a staple on radio and TV, making Dawson a recognizable face in Kansas City.
On Wednesday, Dawson’s family announced he had passed away at the age of 87 after a stay in hospice care. Chiefs fans shared their condolences for Dawson’s family and their favorite memories of his time in the NFL and calling KC games.
Here is what’s being said on Twitter and Reddit.
A Reddit user wrote: “Len was such a legend. Even for the younger fans who weren’t alive for Super Bowl IV, we grew up with him listening to his color commentary on radio broadcasts and watching him on KMBC and Inside the NFL. He connected to EVERY generation, and was one of the most personable players there was. Rest easy Lenny, this season will be dedicated to you.”
Another wrote: “One of the greatest to ever do it and the man that breathed life into this franchise along with Hank Stram. I’m glad he was able to see the Chiefs win one more Super Bowl before he left us. Rest In Peace, Lenny.”
A fan shared this: “Lenny put us on the map and got us our first Lombardi. EVERY single Chiefs fan owes this great man a debt of gratitude. Thank you, Lenny! RIP, legend”
On Reddit a fan wrote: “Lenny the Cool. Watching him hit Otis Taylor were formative times of my youth. Plus, he was a pretty nice guy. And never minced words when the color man on the radio. Sad today, but happy to have time with him in Kansas City.”
Another shared this: “Those of you who are too young to have heard him on the radio broadcasts are missing out. “He had the misfortune of having to call some of the worst games and hearing Mitch say “and croyle throws a 30 yard bomb that… falls into the dirt” followed by a disgusted ‘ughhh’ from Len was just amazing. He didn’t hold back at all when someone screwed up.”
“R.I.P. to a Chiefs legend. My condolences to his family,” a Reddit user wrote.
A second wrote: “I/we knew this was coming soon, but this still is a kick in the gut. RIP. I’m still not prepared to accept this, but I have to.”
On Reddit, a fan wrote: “Legends don’t die. They just go to live with the memories. Thank you for all the good ones you’ve given me Lenny The Cool.”
This story was originally published August 24, 2022 at 8:59 AM.
