Legendary Raiders Quarterback Ken Stabler Dies at 69

By BEA KARNES (Patch Staff)

Raider Nation lost its most beloved quarterback Wednesday when Ken Stabler passed away at the age of 69. His family posted an announcement on his Facebook page saying that he had “passed peacefully” in Alabama surrounded by family, including his three daughters. He was diagnosed with colon cancer in February.

Stabler holds a special place in the hearts of Bay Area fans for leading the team to its first Super Bowl victory in 1977. Precision passes from Kenny “The Snake” Stabler to Hall of Fame receiver Freddie Biletnikoff, who with his sticky fingers didn’t miss a ball anywhere in his vicinity, had fans on their feet screaming deliriously.

Raiders Owner Mark Davis released a statement Thursday evening, “The Raiders are deeply saddened by the passing of the great Ken Stabler. He was a cherished member of the Raider family and personified what it means to be a Raider. He wore the Silver and Black with Pride and Poise and will continue to live in the hearts of Raider fans everywhere. Our sincerest thoughts and prayers go out to Kenny’s family.”

East Bay resident and former coach, John Madden, who was on the sidelines for that ‘77 Super Bowl victory, also issued a statement, “I was head coach of the Raiders the entire time Kenny was there and he led us to a whole bunch of victories including one in Super Bowl XI. I’ve often said, If I had one drive to win a game to this day, and I had a quarterback to pick, I would pick Kenny. Snake was a lot cooler that I was. He was a perfect quarterback and a perfect Raider. When you think about the Raiders you think about Ken Stabler. Kenny loved life. It is a sad day for all Raiders.”

Reactions are pouring in from the entertainment and sporting world.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

--Photo via Getty Images