Another member of the Green Bay Packers' "Ice Bowl" team has passed away.
Offensive guard Gale Gillingham, a five-time Pro-Bowler and a native of Madison, Wis., died Thursday at the age of 67. Gillingham played 10 seasons for the Packers, who drafted him in the first round with the 13th overall pick in 1966 out of the University of Minnesota.
Gillingham became a starter at left guard, replacing Fuzzy Thurston, in 1967, which concluded with the "Ice Bowl" and Super Bowl II. Later in his career he moved to right guard and made the Pro Bowl five times in a six-year span from 1969-74. Only two offensive linemen in club history have made more Pro Bowls: Forrest Gregg (nine) and Jim Ringo (seven).
"He had a great career," said former quarterback Bart Starr, who was also Gillingham's head coach in the final season of his career in 1976. "I think he was uniquely dedicated and committed, and it's hard to replace those two words. He was a great teammate."
A first-team All-Pro in 1969 and 1970, Gillingham was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame in 1982. He played in 128 regular-season games in his career.
"We are saddened to hear of Gale's passing," Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy said. "On a team with a notable history of outstanding offensive linemen, Gale stood out. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gale's family."
