The former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker dies at the age of 69

Jim LeClair, who played 12 seasons for the Cincinnati Bengals, made the Pro Bowl in 1976 and started in 1982 with the linebacker in his Super Bowl XVI loss to the San Francisco 49ers. He died on Monday at the age of 69 in Mayville, North Dakota. According to his obituary, he was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease years ago.

The former University of North Dakota star spent his entire career in the National Football League with the Bengals from 1972 to 1983 before playing two seasons with the New Jersey Generals of the USFL.

The investigator selected LeClair as one of the 50 most influential people in Bengal history.

September 14, 1976: Bengals Jim LeClair (55) takes on the Denver Broncos.

More from his obituary:

Jim was an excellent athlete who excelled in soccer and wrestling during his high school and college years. While playing for the Bengals, he served for many years as defensive captain, was nominated for the Pro Bowl and played in Super Bowl XVI.

Jim loved a challenge and intended to win every challenge that lay ahead. This competition even led him to a winning wrestling match weighing 500 pounds. Black Bear at the Cincinnati Convention Center.

Viewing: Will take place on Thursday, November 7, 2019, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a public prayer service at 6 p.m. in the evangelical free church on the river in Mayville, ND, and will resume one hour before the service in the church.

Memorial Service: Friday, November 8, 2019, 2:00 p.m. at the Riverside Evangelical Free Church in Mayville, ND.

Funeral: Will be at Mayville Cemetery in Mayville, ND.

Former Bengali teammate Tim Krumrie offered a tribute via Twitter:

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