Prayers are being sent for the Kansas City Chiefs and their community following a significant loss this week. The Chiefs mourn the passing of broadcasting legend Dan Israel, a deeply ingrained member of their community, who died at the age of 60 after a decade-long battle with colon cancer. Israel was a cherished part of Chiefs Kingdom for over thirty years, and after his tragic passing, Chiefs owner Clark Hunt released a heartfelt statement.
“My family and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Dan Israel. Dan was an integral part of our organization for 35 seasons, and his work as executive producer of the Chiefs Radio Network helped bring the game to life for millions of listeners across Chiefs Kingdom,” Hunt said, via the Chiefs’ official website. “Dan was dedicated, he was kind, and he brought joy into our building each day. Through his battle with cancer over the past ten years, these qualities served as an inspiration to his coworkers and Chiefs fans alike. We will certainly miss him, and we will keep his family in our prayers.”
Fans also expressed their sorrow over the news. “Wow. RIP Dan – had no idea he was battling cancer. What a shame and gone far too young. Prayers to his family,” one fan tweeted. Another shared, “Saddened to hear this news. I knew Dan was again battling cancer. He was always very generous and gracious with his time, and I’ll always remember and appreciate that. Gone too soon. Thoughts and prayers to his family. The entire Kingdom will miss him.” A different fan reminisced, “So sad. All the way back to the early days listening to him do pregame and the NFL desk at halftime while me and my dad were driving home from the track! I can hear his voice rattling off the scores from the rest of the league. RIP.”
In light of this tragedy, we hope that Israel’s family and the Chiefs community are granted the time needed to mourn and heal.