MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA — Larry Fitzgerald Sr., a respected sports journalist, broadcasting pioneer, and longtime voice in Minnesota sports media, has passed away at the age of 71. Family members confirmed his passing through a public statement shared on social media, noting that he died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our father, Larry Fitzgerald Sr. A devoted father, husband, grandfather, and a true pioneer in the Minnesota broadcasting community, he spent his life pouring into the people and the city he loved so much,” said his son, Marcus Fitzgerald.
“He left us peacefully this afternoon, surrounded by his family and the people who loved him most.”
No cause of death was disclosed by the family.
Life and Legacy
Born in 1954, Fitzgerald Sr. became one of Minnesota’s most recognizable and respected sports journalists. Over a career that spanned nearly five decades, he built a reputation for insightful reporting, professionalism, and deep connections throughout the sports community.
A trailblazer in local broadcasting, Fitzgerald Sr. covered countless major sporting events, including numerous Super Bowls, and earned widespread respect from athletes, coaches, executives, and fellow journalists across the National Football League and beyond. He was notably the first journalist to cover his son, NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald Jr., competing in a Super Bowl, a unique milestone that reflected both his professional achievements and personal pride.
His influence extended far beyond journalism. Friends, colleagues, and community leaders remember him as a mentor, advocate, and dedicated family man who helped shape Minnesota’s sports media landscape for generations.
In a heartfelt tribute shared following his father’s passing, Larry Fitzgerald Jr. wrote:
“My father was a man of strength, love and encouragement. He opened countless doors for me and my brother. He believed in us and pushed us to pursue every opportunity with conviction; he was the rock of our family. He taught us that perseverance, hard work, and unwavering commitment are the foundations of a meaningful life and personal success. I will carry his love, words, and wisdom with me always.”
Tributes quickly poured in from across the sports world. The Arizona Cardinals expressed their condolences, describing Fitzgerald Sr. as a cherished presence around the organization and NFL press boxes for many years.
The Minnesota Vikings also honored his legacy, calling him “a distinguished journalist and trusted voice in Minnesota sports for nearly 50 years,” while recognizing his impact on the community and the relationships he built throughout his career.
The Minnesota Twins paid tribute as well, recognizing the legacy of the longtime Twin Cities media personality during a game and extending condolences to the Fitzgerald family.
Funeral and Memorial Information
As of publication, the Fitzgerald family has not publicly announced funeral or memorial service arrangements.
- Location: To be announced by the family
- Date & Time: Not yet disclosed
- Protocol: Family requests and memorial details have not yet been released
Remembering Larry Fitzgerald Sr.
Larry Fitzgerald Sr.’s legacy will endure through the countless stories he told, the journalists he inspired, and the family he cherished. His contributions to sports journalism and the Minnesota community leave a lasting mark that will not be forgotten.
Editorial Note: This report has been compiled using verified public statements from the Fitzgerald family, professional sports organizations, and official tributes released following Larry Fitzgerald Sr.’s passing.