STOCKTON, Calif. -- College football Hall of Famer, former NFL quarterback and war hero Eddie LeBaron Jr. has died. He was 85.
The University of Pacific said LeBaron died of natural causes Wednesday.
"The Pacific family will miss Eddie LeBaron dearly, but he will remain in our hearts and memories forever," said Pacific's Director of Athletics Dr. Ted Leland. "He led then-College of the Pacific to national prominence in football and brought great honor and recognition to the University throughout his life and especially during his distinguished college and pro football career as a player and administrator.
"He was a decorated U.S. Marine officer during his service in the Korean War and a prominent lawyer in Northern California. Here's to the Greatest Tiger of Them All."
LeBaron played at Pacific for coach Amos Alonzo Stagg and also helped lead the Tigers to an undefeated season in 1949.
He later served as a U.S. Marine in the Korean War and was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for heroism.
LeBaron played 11 seasons in the NFL for Washington and Dallas. He threw for 13,399 yards and 104 touchdowns and was selected to four Pro Bowls.
He later served as general manager for the Atlanta Falcons from 1977 to 1982 and was the league's Executive of the Year in 1980. He also served on the NFL's Competition Committee.
He is survived by his wife Doralee, sons Edward "Wayne" III, Richard and William, and five grandchildren.
Copyright 2015 by The Associated Press
