Hall of Famer Merlin Olsen, aged 69, passed away Thursday, March 11 due to mesothelioma, a form of lung cancer usually associated with abestos. Merlin began his professional football career in 1962, already a star. While playing at Utah State he was an All-American, and then a first round draft pick for the Los Angelos Rams. He was chosen to play in fourteen Pro Bowls, and was later selected for the Professional Football Hall of Fame in 1982. He was well know for his hard work and character on and off the field.

Merlin Olsen was also known for his roles in the televison shows Father Murphy and Little House on the Prairie. Many who watched these shows may never have known he was a football legend as well. He participated in fund raising events for children, acted as a spokesman for commercials, and even found time to finish his masters degree in economics.

Merlin Olsen dies, leaving only two of the “Fearsome Foursome” still living. The “Fearsome Foursome” was one of professional football’s most famous defensive lines, playing for the Los Angeles Rams in the 1960′s. The other three were teammates Lamar Lundy, Rosie Grier and David Deacon Jones. He will be remembered for his many contributions to football and society.

Football Legend Merlin Olsen Dies From Mesothelioma