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Gene Upshaw
Born: 1945-08-15 - Died: 2008-08-20Cause of Death: Pancreatic Cancer
Death Summary: Eugene Thurman Upshaw Jr. died on August 20, 2008 from pancreatic cancer, though there was no public knowledge of his illness. The NFL confirmed his death at 8:30 a.m. EST.
Who was Gene Upshaw: Upshaw was a former football player, who played with the Oakland Raiders in the American Football League and the National Football League for 16 years. During his career he had the privilege of playing in three Super Bowls - 1967, 1976 and 1980.
Upshaw was a member of the bargaining committee for the National Football League Players’ Association (NFLPA). He was an instrumental part in the deal that brought a salary cap across the league as well as for the right to free agency, and an enhanced share of league revenues.
In 2006 Upshaw alienated many of the retired players. 325 former AFL and NFL players only got minimal retirement benefits. When they attempted to contact Upshaw about their concerns he stated, “I don’t work for them. They are not union members and they have no vote.”
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I was young in his playing days but, his name was familiar to me. Enough so that I came here. My Condolences
I pray for the family’s strength and encourage you to hold on to the liftime of lessons and memories Gene provided. Although these times are difficult he lived every minute of his life in a manner that gave you a clear path to follow. To all of Gene’s family at the NFLPA rest assured your leader wold not have left you until he knew you were ready to carry on. Athelia and NFLPA staff our prayers are with you all continue on with confidence rembering the many lessons and examples you have been privy to. I had the opportunity to work in the Raiders organization while completing law school and I was a certified NFLPA Contract Advisor/agent during the early 90’s and through 2005. As a member of the Raider and NFL family we all share a tremendous loss but have an opprotunity realize the tremendous blessings we have in the associations we have with each other. Cherish the memories we have of Gene and value each minute we have together. I thank Gene Upshaw, Art Shell, George Atkinson, Henry Lawrence, Jack Tatum, Morris Bradshaw, Carolyn Paul, Jeff Birren, Mike Taylor, Amy Trask and Mr. Al Davis for allowing me into the Raider family and each of your lives I value the relationships. The impact of every minute spent is eternal.