Cardinals Owner Bill Bidwill Passes Away At 88

“Our dad passed away today the same way he lived his life: peacefully, with grace, dignity and surrounded by family and loved ones,” Cardinals President Michael Bidwill said in a statement. “We are overwhelmed by the support our family has received, not only now but throughout the latest chapter of his life. We are especially grateful to the nurses, doctors and other caregivers whose endless kindness and compassion in recent years have made our dad’s life so meaningful.

“Above all else, we will remember him as a man devoted to the three central pillars of his life – his immense faith, his love for his family and his life-long passion for the Cardinals and the sport of football.”

“Bill Bidwill was part of the NFL family his entire life, starting from his days as a ball boy through his time as an owner,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. “Although never one to seek the spotlight, Bill had an incredible sense of humor and he made extraordinary contributions to the NFL. Bill’s vision brought the Cardinals, the NFL and multiple Super Bowls to Arizona. He was a leader in embracing diversity and employed the first African American female executive, and the first African American general manager and head coach tandem. We extend our condolences to Bill’s family and the Cardinals organization, which along with his faith, meant so much to him.” 

Bidwill has been a part of Cardinals ownership since 1962 and the sole owner of the team since 1972. His father Charles Bidwill purchased the team in 1933 when it was still the Chicago Cardinals. Bill Bidwill moved the team from St. Louis to Phoenix in 1988. 

Bidwill was the NFL’s longest-tenured owner following the death of Bills owner Ralph Wilson in 2014. Arizona only made the playoffs eight times during his time as owner.